As the leaves change and the temperatures drop, many of us look forward to the warmth and ambiance of a wood stove. Wood stoves are a great source of heat and can be an efficient way to warm your space, but to ensure a cozy and safe home, it’s crucial to prioritize proper maintenance and operation.

Do:

• Keep children and pets away from the stove
• Keep anything combustible at least 1 metre (3 ft) from the stove
• Ensure your carbon monoxide and smoke alarms are working correctly (Don’t forget to replace batteries biannually!!)
• Ensure proper ventilation by open the damper before lighting the stove and keep it open until the fire is out and ashes are cool
• Burn only seasoned hardwood to reduce smoke and CO emissions
• Regularly remove ashes and store them in a covered metal container at least 10 feet away from buildings or vehicles
• Have your chimney cleaned and inspected regularly to prevent creosote buildup and ensure safe ventilation
• Have your wood stove inspected annually by a professional to identify any wear and tear, buckling, cracks, or corrosion
• Develop a fire escape plan with your family and practice it regularly to help you prepare in case of an emergency (see tips for creating a plan here)

Don’t:

• Don’t make a larger fire than your stove can handle–overfiring can cause damage to your stove or chimney and increase the risk of a fire
• Never leave your stove burning unattended
• Don’t burn other combustibles like rubber, plastics, garbage, or coal, as they can release toxic fumes and damage your stove
• Don’t let ashes build up

Exercising due care and focusing on safe practices will mean your wood-burning stove will keep you toasty warm throughout the colder months.