Holiday fires put more strain on a chimney than any other time of the year, and many Connecticut homeowners light their first fire since last winter on Thanksgiving. A short safety checklist keeps the season enjoyable and safe.
Before the First Fire
- Book a chimney inspection and sweep in October
- Confirm the cap is intact and the damper moves freely
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
- Stock seasoned hardwood stored dry
Decoration Safety
- Keep stockings and garland at least three feet from the opening
- Do not hang decorations from a mantel above a lit fire
- Use a sturdy screen
- Never burn wrapping paper or evergreen boughs
During the Season
- Never leave a fire unattended
- Let ash cool before disposal in a metal container
- Open the damper fully before lighting
- Watch for smoke spillage or unusual odors
If anything seems off, stop using the fireplace and call a certified technician.
Holiday Fire Safety Checklist
- Check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby
- Use a fireplace screen
- Keep flammable decorations away
- Dispose of ashes in a metal container outside
Burning Tips
Use seasoned hardwood, build small hot fires and never use accelerants. Do not burn wrapping paper, which flares and can send embers up the flue.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon should I book an inspection
Early October at the latest.
Is it safe to leave a fire overnight
No. Make sure it is fully out before bed.
Can I burn a Christmas tree
No. Dry evergreens burn violently and deposit creosote.
Holiday Fire Safety Basics
Fire departments see more home fires during the holiday season. Combine that with first fires of the year in chimneys that have not been cleaned, and the risk goes up. A short checklist before the guests arrive can prevent a serious accident.
Prepare the Hearth
- Clear the hearth of stored items
- Keep a three foot clear zone around the fireplace
- Use a screen to catch sparks
- Check that the damper opens fully
- Remove old ashes and bags of kindling
Do Not Burn These
- Wrapping paper and boxes
- Christmas trees and wreaths
- Treated or painted lumber
- Plastics and trash
Decorating Safely
Mantel garlands, stockings and candles should be kept away from open flames. Use battery operated candles on the mantel and hang stockings away from the fire opening. Never leave a lit fireplace unattended when hosting a crowd.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I schedule an inspection before the holidays
By early November, because calendars fill quickly.
Can I use a fireplace as the only source of heat
Not safely unless it is designed for it. Use it as supplemental heat.
Should I keep a fire extinguisher nearby
Yes, a rated ABC extinguisher kept within reach is a smart safeguard.
Local Help and Related Reading
Our crews handle chimney sweeps in Westport, chimney repair in Stamford, chimney caps in Danbury and chimney cleaning in Shelton. Browse every town on our service areas page or our services.
More to read: Why Does My Chimney Smell in Connecticut: Causes and Fixes, Chimney Rebuild vs Repair in Connecticut: How to Decide, Fireplace Damper Problems and Replacement in Connecticut.
For wider guidance, see the EPA Burn Wise program, the U.S. Department of Energy and CT DEEP.
