Now that Christmas is around the corner, it’s time to get the Christmas decorations out and get in the holiday spirit. It’s tempting to go all out, to make sure that every corner is filled with holiday cheer. If you’re fortunate enough to own a fireplace, then you know it’s very tempting to go all out when it comes to decorating it for the holidays. It’s important to keep in mind that it is not a great idea, and it can actually be a fire hazard.
Decorating Ideas to Avoid
Adding evergreen boughs and holly branches to the mantle can look and smell wonderful. Careful placement of candles and bows can also add just the right festive touch, especially if you add ornaments or glittered pine cones to the mix. If those ornaments have sentimental value, all the better to bring back memories of holidays past. But if those greens are too dry and your fireplace sparks, it could be a matter of seconds before your mantle is on fire.
Another thing to avoid when decorating for Christmas is getting your Christmas tree too close to the fireplace. This can be a real temptation, in part because it makes for such a great photo opportunity! The trouble is the same as having too much greenery on the mantle. Once the tree starts to dry out, it is a fire waiting to happen. When evergreen trees get dry, they ignite very easily, and all it would take is a flying ember.
More Things to Avoid
What looks homier than stockings hanging from the mantle? If your stockings hang down too far, they could easily get too hot and ignite. If there’s a breeze in the room when doors open or a fan blowing, then those cloth or yarn stockings could blow too close to the flame, and that’s dangerous!
Once Christmas is over, you might be tempted to get rid of your Christmas tree by burning it in your fireplace. This is not a good idea. First, the wood hasn’t been properly cured, and wet wood does not burn as quickly or completely as cured wood. Second, pine wood has a very high sap content. When this burns, it can cause excessive creosote buildup. Third, this could cause a large amount of smoke to enter your home.
Avoid the Temptation to Overdecorate
While it might be tempting to pile on the decorations at Christmas, remember to keep safety in mind. If you have any questions or concerns, call Old Dominion Chimneys. We offer the best advice and service for all your fireplace and chimney system issues!
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