Having a wood stove in your home can add elegance, warmth, comfort and provide a relaxing atmosphere. It also has the benefit of lowering your heating bills in the winter. There is nothing as comfortable as sitting in front of a crackling wood stove on a cold winter’s evening, in your favorite chair with a good book. Plus, there are many wood stove parts and accessories that can add to your enjoyment.
Owning a wood stove comes with some added responsibilities as you have to take several safety measures to ensure that everyone stays safe and secure inside your home. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Wood Stove Safety Tips
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Have your chimney cleaned at least twice a year and have your flue vents inspected on a regular basis
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Keep a fire extinguisher close by and inspect it regularly to ensure it will work when and if you need it
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Teach your children to stay away from the hot stove; make sure they are supervised when near it
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Let ashes completely cool in a metal container before disposing of them; they could still contain live embers
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Keep materials such as paper, cardboard, curtains, etc. well out of the way. Also make sure wood is stored well away from the stove
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Check hinges, gaskets and latches regularly
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Don’t use gasoline or other flammable liquids to start your fire
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Never have the wood stove going when you are away and never leave it unattended
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When using wood stove parts and accessories, such as a glass insert, make sure installation is done by a professional
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Have a first aid kit on hand to treat minor burns
Most of all enjoy your wood stove! It is not only functional; it provides peace and tranquility to an otherwise hectic and stressful day. So grab a cup of tea, curl up in your chair with a good book and listen the crackling sound as you ease your troubles away.
