A fireplace can be warm and wonderful. But the evening news is
sprinkled with stories of tragic
fires that rob families of possessions, homes and even loved
ones.

“Used correctly, your fireplace is a source of warmth and cozy
atmosphere,” says Dale Dorman,
a housing specialist with the University of Georgia Extension
Service. “But be sure to follow the
rules to avoid fire risks.”

Be sure the flue is open. Use a screen to enclose the front of
your fireplace to confine live embers
and sparks to the fire box.

Use care with “fire salts” that produce colored flames when
thrown on a wood fire. They contain
heavy metals, and can cause intense gastrointestinal irritation
or vomiting if eaten. Keep them
away from children and pets.

Prepare for emergencies. Dorman recommends certain safety
rules:

* Keep the fire department, police, ambulance, doctor and other
emergency numbers posted on
or near your telephone.

* Keep a UL-listed multipurpose fire extinguisher in your home.
Know where it is and how to
use it.

* Many fire departments now offer first aid classes for people
in their communities. At least one
member of the family should be familiar with first aid
procedures.

* Keep matches, lighters and candles out of the reach of
children.

* Make an emergency plan to use if a fire breaks out anywhere in
your home. See that each
family member knows at least two escape routes.

* Don’t wear loose, flowing clothes, especially long, open
sleeves, near the open flames of a
fireplace, stove or candle-lit table.

* Burning evergreens in the fireplace can be dangerous. When
dry, evergreens burn like tinder.
Their flames can flare out of control, sending sparks flying
around the room.

* Plan for safety. Remember, there is no substitute for common
sense. Look for and eliminate
potential danger spots near candles, fireplaces and electrical
connections.