Toddler-Proof Your Hearth: Style That Keeps Little Hands (and Paws) Safe

Your fireplace has brought you and your family joy for years. All the family gatherings from Christmas to cozy chilly nights, snuggling up in front of the fireplace. With the enjoyment and pleasure you get from the fireplace comes the added responsibility of keeping everyone around it safe and sound. Keeping toddlers, young children, and even Fido away from the heat of the fire can be a challenge, but you have to lay down the rules up front so everyone, including Fido, is well aware of the dangers.

Non-negotiable Safety Rules

• Create a “no-go” zone. This should be established before you build your very first fire of the season. Establish a three-foot radius around the fireplace opening as a “no-go” zone. Use hearth gates or barriers if needed.
• Always use a sturdy fireplace screen. This can be metal mesh or glass doors. Secure it down so a toddler or pet cannot push it over.
• Never leave your fireplace unattended, especially when children or pets are in the room.
• Purchase a hearth pad, a protective, non-combustible surface placed in front of and sometimes under or around the fireplace. The purpose is to prevent burns or fire damage to the wood and carpets around the fireplace. We also provide a heat barrier to protect accidental touches by the little ones.
• Keep tools out of reach of small children. Your pokers, tongs, matches, and lighters should be out of sight or out of reach.
• Absolutely no running or rough play in the room with a fire burning.
• Teach “Hot—do not touch.”
• Keep toys away from the fireplace. Distract them from the need to wander closer.
• Watch for wagging tails and your furry friends’ curiosity.

Safety First: Fire Prevention Basics

Here are some fire prevention basics that all homeowners with a fireplace should know:

• Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in nearby rooms.
• Keep a fire extinguisher accessible.
• Only burn seasoned firewood. Never throw trash, cardboard, or treated wood into your fireplace. These products can emit toxic fumes.
• Let ashes and spent wood cool completely before removing them from the fireplace. Store in a metal container with a lid outside, away from any building or flammable materials.

When you have the benefit of enjoying a fireplace in your home, be sure to keep an eye on the little ones and your pets. A watchful eye is usually your best defense against injury.

All of our chimney technicians are certified as Certified Chimney Sweeps, certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America. Our technicians stay up to date with the ever-changing codes and standards in the chimney and venting industry. We utilize the best equipment, products, technologies, and training to deliver the highest level of professional service at reasonable rates. Here at Horizon Chimney, we share a simple yet powerful philosophy: Treat our customers the way we would want to be treated. We pride ourselves on developing honest, long-lasting customer relationships.

We look forward to servicing your chimney and venting system to ensure you and your family stay warm and safe throughout the year.