It burns quickly, and the sudden flare-ups may spread outside your fireplace. Don't burn Christmas wrappings or plastic items. These items may give off toxic chemicals in the smoke and cause additional sparks to go up the chimney, Graham said. When removing the ashes, put them in a tightly sealed metal container, Graham said. Do not remove ashes with any type of paper products because they can quickly catch fire.
Some types of wood are better than others to burn.
Hardwoods are best for firewood because pine has a high resin content that increases creosote buildup. Dr. Bob Daniels, Extension forestry specialist, said the most commonly used firewood in Mississippi is oak and hickory. When people purchase firewood, they should try to get as much heating value as possible for the money. That means buying denser species of wood like oak and hickory. Buy wood that has been split, stacked and dried for a few months.