Cozying up around the fireplace is a family favourite, but it’s vital to take the necessary precautions and keep the right safety measures in mind. In this article, we have compiled a list of tips with everything you need to know about fireplace safety, so you can continue to enjoy the warmth of the flame as safely as possible.
Common Safety Concerns Associated with Different Fireplace Types
Not all fireplaces function nor operate the same way. That’s why it’s important to know the specific safety concerns associated with your fireplace. Below, we have jotted down the main safety concerns associated with the most common types of fireplaces.
Wood-Burning Fireplace
When it comes to burning wood, the greatest concern is the release of harmful gases such as carbon monoxide which have negative health effects when inhaled. As well, creosote build-up (a byproduct of burning wood) can cause thick debris in the flue and chimney which prevents smoke from being able to escape properly. Creosote buildup severely increases the chances of combustion and is most often responsible for chimney fires.
Wood Stove
A wood stove fireplace is a free-standing appliance that is enclosed by glass doors. Due to its closed combustion system, wood stoves are more efficient than traditional wood burning fireplaces, generate less smoke, and are safer due to their all-encompassing design. However, it’s important to keep the glass doors closed to avoid sparks and hot embers from flying out, as well as to lessen carbon monoxide emissions in your living space.
Gas Fireplace
A gas fireplace burns a real flame, without the inconvenience of burning firewood, cleaning chimneys, and managing ashes and pesky soot. A gas fireplace features a glass panel that completely separates the firebox from your space, and is fully fueled by gasoline — a cleaner and safer alternative than burning wood! Although minimized, concerns about carbon monoxide emissions and gas leaks are still prevalent with this type of fireplace.
Ethanol Fireplace
An ethanol fireplace is a ventless fireplace that functions with clean-burning ethanol fuel. They don’t require chimneys, electricity, or gas lines and the only components are the frame and burner. Ethanol fireplaces produce a vibrant flame and pleasant warmth — minus the smoke and hazardous gases! Say goodbye to smoke detectors, chimney inspections, and gas leaks. Ethanol fireplaces are a much safer alternative and emit the least amount of carbon monoxide, a complete win! The only preventive measure you need to take with ethanol fireplaces is reducing fire hazards by keeping your items away from the flames.
Which Type of Fireplace is the Safest?
Without a doubt, ethanol fireplaces win all aspects of safety with their clean-burning capabilities, zero toxic waste and extremely minimized carbon monoxide emissions. Keep in mind, the amount of carbon dioxide released from ethanol fireplaces can be comparable to that of human breath! You are able to enjoy authentic flames with your loved ones, worry-free from any harmful emissions or mess!
Essential Fireplace Safety Tips
In order to enjoy the crackling fire with your loved ones responsibly, it’s very important to be educated and aware of the proper safety precautions when it comes to using fireplaces. Below we have compiled a list of essential fireplace safety tips to keep you and your family safe.
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Ensure You Have Fire Safety Tools Nearby Being equipped with the appropriate tools and alarm detectors can help you gain precious time in the instance of a fire, or better yet help you prevent them. Below are two very essential tools you need.
- Fire Extinguisher: In the instance of any fire, it is crucial that you are equipped with a fire extinguisher. Due to their portability and availability in different sizes, fire extinguishers are extremely flexible and can help you quickly put out a fire.
- Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Carbon monoxide gas is completely odourless, colourless, and tasteless — and most importantly poisonous if inhaled. There is essentially no way to tell when you are surrounded by this gas, which is why it’s so important to invest in a carbon monoxide detector. These detectors not only provide homeowners with peace of mind but also prevent life-threatening situations involving carbon monoxide poisoning by alerting homeowners ahead of time.
- Clear the Area of Potential Fire Hazards Keep highly flammable products and materials such as rugs and carpeting at a safe distance from the fireplace. It’s a good idea to keep a non-flammable rug in front of the fireplace as they are fire-resistant and prevent damage to your floors from any sparks, ash, or embers.
- Never Leave a Fire Unattended It is crucial that you never leave a fire unattended. If stepping away from the flame, ensure the fire has been fully extinguished and has been given enough time to cool down. It’s important to allow the extinguished fire to completely cool down as any remaining hot embers and ashes are enough to start an unintentional fire - unless it’s a bioethanol fireplace as those don’t require any cooling time!
- Keep a Close Eye on Pets and Children As much as we enjoy fires, so do children and especially curious pets. It’s important to educate your kids on fireplace safety and to establish strict boundaries such as safety screens to create separation between the fireplace. Besides having fireplace rules and additional safety barriers, it’s still essential you don’t leave children or pets unattended.
How The Bio Flame Can Help You Enjoy The Safest Fires Possible
Bio Flame’s ethanol fireplaces are designed with your safety as a top priority, so you can enjoy warm cozy nights, without all the concerns associated with traditional fireplaces. The Bio Flame’s line of ethanol fireplaces allow homeowners to enjoy all the perks of a fireplace, with extremely minimized safety concerns and zero environmental impact! Our products undergo meticulous testing to ensure they meet global safety standards, so you can continue to enjoy memorable nights around the fireplace, worry-free.
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About The Bio Flame Since 2007 The Bio Flame has been creating unique, eco-friendly, ethanol fireplaces. Bio Flame designers and engineers have continued to set the highest standards of bio ethanol burning fireplaces in the industry with custom designs and record breaking innovations. The Bio Flame has gained great popularity amongst homebuilders, hotels/resorts and designers. Like what we’ve got to say? Come follow us on Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram | Pinterest
As of December 31, 2021, all bio ethanol fireplaces are no longer UL certified due to UL's decision to cease certification for LRBA/LRBA7 appliances. However, Bio Flame fireplaces are CE certified, indicating compliance with international safety standards. Additionally, our products are certified under EN 16647: 2015 Standard, ensuring compliance with legislation applied to bio-fireplaces and bio stoves regarding safety, quality of materials, and production standards. Bio Flame is actively pursuing additional certifications, reinforcing our commitment to providing safe, high-quality products.
