Wood Stoves and Fireplaces

Have your chimney and fireplace cleaned and inspected yearly for creosote build-up, cracks, crumbling bricks or mortar and any obstructions. This is best done by a professional chimney sweep.
Burn only dry, well seasoned hardwood to minimize creosote. Don't burn trash.
Place ashes outdoors in a covered metal container at least three feet away from anyhting that burns. Don't set the container on a wood proch floor or any other combustible surface.
Always use a fireplace screen made of sturdy metal or heat-tempered glass to prevent sparks from escaping. If you have children, use a child-guard screen as a barrier for your wood stove.