New Canaan Fire Marshal Offers Fireplace Safety

Community Corner

New Canaan Fire Marshal Offers Fireplace Safety The New Canaan Fire Marshal's Office has provided a number of key tips for residents to keep their home safe during fireplace season.

NEW CANAAN, CT — The New Canaan Fire Marshal's Office has provided a number of key tips for residents to keep their home safe as the town enters fireplace season.

In a recent Facebook post, the fire marshal's office noted New Canaan has recently experienced two brush fires due to improper disposal of fireplace ashes.

With Connecticut under an "extreme fire risk," it is essential to handle fireplace embers and ashes safely, according to the fire marshal's office.

The following fireplace season safety tips were provided by the New Canaan Fire Marshal's Office:

Dispose of Ashes Properly: Ashes can stay hot for days. Always use a metal ash bucket with a tight-fitting lid and store it away from the house for several days before discarding.

: Make sure the damper is fully open before lighting and leave it open for at least 24 hours to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.

Avoid Combustible Liquids: Never use accelerants to start a fire.

Burn the Right Wood: Use only dry, seasoned hardwoods. Don't burn trash or wrapping paper, which can overload the flue.

Use Fireplace Screens: These prevent flying embers from escaping.

Consider a Spark Arrestor Cap: A cap on your chimney keeps embers contained and critters out, especially if you have a wood-shingle roof.

Regular Cleaning: Have your chimney inspected and cleaned by certified professionals regularly, especially if used often.

Inspect After Long Periods: If it's been a while, have your chimney checked for nests or blockages.

Check Detectors: Ensure smoke and CO detectors are installed and working.

More information is available .