🔥 Fireplace Safety Reminder from the North Highlands Fire Department 🔥 |
| By Chief Joseph Hyatt | |
| September 14, 2026 | |
| As the cooler weather approaches, many of us will soon be enjoying the warmth of our fireplaces and wood stoves. Before lighting that first fire of the season, take a few minutes to make sure your home and family are protected. • Have your chimney and fireplace inspected and cleaned annually by a qualified professional. • Keep furniture, decorations, firewood, and other combustible materials at least 3 feet away from the fireplace. • Always use a sturdy fireplace screen to help prevent sparks and embers from escaping. • Never leave a fire unattended, and make sure it is completely out before going to bed or leaving your home. • Burn only clean, dry, seasoned wood—never burn trash, cardboard, or treated wood. • Dispose of ashes in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid and keep the container outdoors, away from your home or other structures. • Make sure your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly and have fresh batteries. Stay warm. Stay safe. |
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