At SirVent Chimney & Venting Service, we take pride in keeping our customer base as safe as possible. That’s why we take the time to invest in things like CSIA certifications, memberships with the NCSG, and countless other educational opportunities. Thanks to these credentials, as well as our many years of experience in the industry, we are equipped with the knowledge and expertise necessary to set you up right year after year.
As we approach the holidays, there are a few extra precautions homeowners need to take to stay better protected from fires, smoke, and poisonous gases. Follow some of our guidelines below and, if you have any other questions, please reach out to our team right away. We are always happy and eager to serve!
Using an Artificial Tree?
Artificial trees are far less messy than their living counterparts, but just because you’re not putting real branches and leaves in your home doesn’t mean you aren’t at risk of the tree going up in flames. Be sure to invest in one that is flame-resistant, and never put it up close to the fireplace or any other heat source in your home. Also, have fun decorating, but never adorn the tree with lighted candles, and never plugin more than three strands of lights into each other.
Do You Purchase a Real Tree?
If you go with the more traditional option of buying a real tree every year, then there are some important considerations for you to keep in mind, as well. As with artificial trees, keep them far away from any flames or sources of heat, as this increases the likelihood of a fire in your home. It is also vital to water them on a regular basis to ensure they don’t dry out, which would make them much more prone to catch fire.
Finally, don’t leave the lights on when you leave home or when you go to sleep. Always unplug everything to keep your home and family as safe as possible in the weeks ahead!
Invest in a Fireplace Inspection
Yet to get an inspection in the books? The CSIA recommends investing in a fireplace and chimney inspection at least once per year to ensure your system stays running efficiently. This step will also allow a professional to check for any cracks, holes, or other damages throughout your structure, as well as any buildup of creosote accumulation. All of these things increase your chances of gas leaks, house fires, chimney fires, and more, so don’t take any chances, and get an appointment scheduled with our team right away. We’d love to set you upright!
Burn Only Seasoned Wood
Own a wood-burning fireplace, insert, or stove? Then, ensuring you only burn well-seasoned wood in your appliance is a must! You can tell your logs are ready to use when they are split at the ends, darker in color, shorter in length, and lightweight. Another to test them is to smack them together. If they made a hollow, clunking noise (as opposed to a dull thud), then you should be good to go!
Looking to season your own wood? Just be sure to cut the pieces short and store them in a place with open sides and a sturdy roof. You’ll also want to ensure they are off the ground. It’s recommended that wood be stored for at least six months before use – this makes certain that the moisture content has significantly lowered!
Do You Own Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors?
Another vital step of maintaining safety over the holidays is investing in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. In a time where your home is filled with bright lights, candles, and flammable decor, it’s a sad fact that your risk of experiencing a house fire increases dramatically. Your increased use of the fireplace doesn’t help matters, either! All in all, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors help you enjoy the holidays to the fullest, without fear that your family members are at risk.
These devices often offer the first warning signs of danger within the household. Be sure to regularly check the batteries in yours and replace both the batteries and the units as necessary.
Don’t Put Off Fireplace Repairs & Sweepings
Did an inspection reveal excess creosote in your flue, cracks in your brickwork, and/or rusted chimney parts? Don’t put off repair work and sweepings! Using a chimney that isn’t in good shape greatly increases your chances of experiencing carbon monoxide exposure, house fires, smoke inhalation, and more. Not to mention, the longer you put off repairs, the worse any issues will become. An easy and affordable fix now could easily turn into a time-consuming and expensive restoration job down the line. Make the right choice, and get our experts on the job right away.
Our team is here to help, and we would love to give you everything you need to make this holiday season the best one yet. Don’t wait! Call today to set up your appointment, then move forward with the peace of mind you deserve this winter. We’re eager to work with you soon.