Thursday, August 19, 2004
Home Safety News: Fireplace Start Up Tips
Press Release
Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association - Pacific
2304 Huntington Drive, Suite 218
San Marino, California 91108
Contact: Pat Rosengren
626-237-1200
For release in September & October
Fireplace Tips from the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association Ensure a Safe Fall Fireplace Season
Los Angeles, CA � The onset of winter brings about the use of wood-burning and gas fireplaces and stoves to provide families comfort, warmth, and relaxation. With most hearths remaining dormant since last winter, it�s imperative that homeowners keep safety in mind before rekindling their fires.
Your local specialty hearth products retailer can show you the latest in efficient hearth products and help with any safety or maintenance questions. Look for dealers certified by the National Fireplace Institute (NFI). They have earned the highest designation for installation and service for hearth products.
Retailers belonging to the Pacific Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association have special training and experience toward giving you expert advice on all fireplace needs. To find the one closest to you, visit [url=http://www.hpbapacific.org]http://www.hpbapacific.org[/url] or call (888) 332-2472.
The Pacific Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA) imparts simple safety tips:
�Open the damper.
�Make sure chimneys and vents are clear of creosote build-up or obstructions.
�Clean out ashes from previous wood fires.
�Use a fire screen in front of the fireplace to prevent against sparks.
�Make sure the area around the fireplace is clear of furniture, books, newspapers and other potentially flammable materials.
�Check the batteries in smoke detectors to ensure proper operation.
�Make sure all firewood is dry and well seasoned.
�For gas fireplaces, clean the fan and related air circulation passages and ensure the vents are unobstructed and able to do their job.
�Make sure the fire is completely out before going to bed or leaving the house.
�Make sure fireplace glass doors are installed properly.
�Don�t use more than one manufactured fire log at a time.
�Never burn garbage, charcoal or plastic in the fireplace.
�Never use gasoline or any liquid accelerant to help start a fire.
�Keep small children and pets away from the fireplace.
�Never leave a fire unattended.
�If building a wood fire, keep the fire proportionate to the size of the fireplace.
�Don�t close the damper until the embers have completely stopped burning.
About the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association
The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue (HPBA) is the North American industry association for manufacturers, retailers, distributors, representatives, service firms and allied associates for all types of hearth, barbecue and patio appliances, fuels and accessories. The association provides professional member services and industry support in education, statistics, government relations, marketing, advertising, and consumer education.
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