How to Safely Decorate a Fireplace for the Holidays
If the fireplace serves more purpose than just decoration, following the National Fire Protection Association’s guidelines regarding fire safety is crucial.
The leaves are already starting to turn their vibrant shades of gold, orange, and red, which means the holiday season will be here before we know it. Unfortunately, while decorating may be one of the most fun parts of the holiday preparations, sparkly wreaths and cozy stockings hanging above the mantel can quickly turn into a fire hazard.
To avoid this scenario, learn how to decorate a fireplace safely. Here are a few tips every fireplace owner should keep in mind.
Clear the space
If the fireplace serves more purpose than just decoration, following the National Fire Protection Association’s guidelines regarding fire safety is crucial. They recommend leaving a 3-foot zone around the fireplace clear. Ensure the Christmas tree and all other decorations are an ample distance away from the flames.
Inspect the fireplace
Few things are as cozy as a glowing fireplace to enhance holiday festivities. Unfortunately, lighting one without prior inspection is extremely dangerous. Soot and creosote buildup can increase the risk of a chimney fire, quickly spreading to other home parts. Therefore, inspecting and cleaning the fireplace and chimney every year is essential.
Don’t hang decorations
Hanging stockings from the mantel can help to create a truly festive atmosphere. However, hanging decorations create a fire hazard when the fireplace is lit, which also applies to decorations on the mantel that can potentially dangle down. This doesn’t mean the fireplace must be bare, but be sure to remove hanging decorations before lighting it.
Pick fire-resistant materials
Flammable materials shouldn’t be placed near the fireplace, even while respecting the 3-foot clearance mentioned above. Flame-retardant holiday decorations on the market are treated as less likely to catch fire. While they are still not 100% safe, they are preferable to flammable wreaths and other decorations.
Keep it stable
The mantel should only be decorated with stable items. Anything that can potentially roll down and fall in front of the fireplace creates a safety hazard. Secure items with stands if necessary to ensure they won’t end up near the fire.
Skip the wax
Candles are popular holiday decorations, but regular wax candles may not be the best choice for the mantel. The heat produced by the fireplace can melt these candles, so it’s better to pick electric candles for these areas.
Install a fireplace guard
The fireplace is lovely, but only from a safe distance. In homes where children or pets can freely access the fireplace, installing an added layer of security is recommended. A fireplace safety gate will keep little ones away from the heat. A spark screen guard can also protect the floor in front of the fireplace and lower the chances of a stray ember ruining the holidays.
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