Fireplace Safety
April 2022
Fireplace equipment must include:
-
Fireplace screen
- Fireplace tools (heat resistant gloves, poker, shovel and tongs)
- Metal bucket or container with proper fitting cover for ash and ember removal
- Fire extinguisher (ABC type) located within 35' of fireplace
- "Seasoned" fire wood (1 year old or older)
- wood must be obtained through the Physical Plant Service Desk, ext 2254
- wood must be obtained through the Physical Plant Service Desk, ext 2254
Operating instructions
- Has the fireplace been properly cleaned?
- Ash and ember removal must be done prior to starting a fire
- Open fireplace damper
- Crinkle several sheets of newspaper (black & white print) and place under a log grate
- Place 2 to 4 "seasoned" dry logs on the grate
- wood must be stored outside, in a dry area
- Roll up and light a single section of newspaper
- does the smoke rise up the chimney?
- Yes, light the paper under the grate
- No, put the lit paper out against the inside wall of the fireplace
- does the smoke rise up the chimney?
- Close the fireplace screen
Additional Precautions
- Never leave the fire unattended
- Do not let the fireplace overheat
- Leave the fireplace damper open for approximately 12 hours after the fire is out
- Do not place old ashes or embers in a waste basket or up against the building
Chimney Fires
If you hear a loud roar within the chimney, or there are flames or sparks coming from the top of the chimney, initiate the following:
Activate FIRE ALARM system and call
-
Amherst College Police Department at 2111