New Canaan Fire Marshal Offers Fireplace Safety Reminders For Residents

NEW CANAAN, CT — The New Canaan Fire Marshal's Office has provided a few simple precautions to help residents keep their home and family safe this winter.

The following safety reminders were shared in a Facebook post Monday by the town of New Canaan:

• Ash Safety: Ashes can stay hot for days! Always use a metal ash bucket with a tight-fitting lid.
• Before Lighting: Make sure the fireplace damper is fully open.
• After the Fire: Wait at least 24 hours before closing the flue—smoldering embers can produce carbon monoxide (CO).
• No Accelerants: Never use combustible liquids to start a fire.
• Burn Smart: Use only dry, seasoned hardwoods. Never burn trash or wrapping paper.
• Use Screens: Fireplace screens help stop flying embers.
• Chimney Caps: A spark arrestor cap helps prevent roof fires and keeps critters out.
• Chimney Maintenance: Have chimneys cleaned and inspected by certified professionals every few years (or more often with heavy use).
• Idle Fireplaces: If unused for long periods, an inspection is recommended—animals love chimneys!
• Detectors: Ensure smoke and CO detectors are installed and working properly.

Anyone with questions about fireplace safety is urged to
contact the New Canaan Fire Marshal's Office at 203-594-3030.

"Stay warm, stay safe and enjoy the season," the post reads.

The full post can be viewed on the town's Facebook page.