Fireplace Safety

Below is a list of things that should never be burned in your fireplace.

Household garbage

This includes various forms of plastics and paper. When plastics and paper are burned, their chemical form is changed. The inks and dyes used for the coloring and printing of paper and plastics add to the chemical mixture that is emitted when it is burned. Dioxin, a highly toxic chemical, is the resulting pollutant which builds up in the tissues of animals and humans.

Types of Treated Wood

To avoid a dangerous fire, you should never burn treated, painted or coated wood. These can also release toxins that can make you very sick.

Rubber Products

Never burn rubber in a fireplace, as the stench can be powerful and toxic, and the left over residue will also stain materials.

Green Wood

Green wood is not dry, so it will not produce any heat. Instead, green wood will only produce a lot of smoke and creosote, which is unhealthy to breathe.

To avoid unpredictable fires and toxic chemicals, never burn any of the above materials in your fireplace. Not only will following these instructions help you maintain your fireplace for years to come, but you will also protect the health of your entire family.

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