The holidays are a great time to enjoy time by a warm fire. However, wood burning fireplaces can be extremely dangerous, and can result in a house fire, causing hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage. Here are some tips to ensure safe use of your fireplace this holiday season.

* Never leave a burning fireplace unattended.
* Have your chimney swept annually, and inspected by a licensed chimney sweep every two years.
* Properly start your fire, and use only dry hardwoods to prevent creosote build-up.
* Leave flue open overnight, even if you think the fire is out. Carbon Monoxide can continue to build and most be exhausted out of the house.
* Ensure Carbon Monoxide detectors are nearby, and functioning.
* Keep roof area and gutters free of leaves, and pine needles, as embers could ignite them.
* Here is a good article covering more details about safe use of your fireplace from Freshome.com: How To Enjoy Your Fireplace Safely

And lastly, from all of us here at REEF Cape Cod's Home Builder, we hope you have a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season!