Wood Stove Child Safety

Wood stoves offer a low-cost alternative to heating with gas or electricity. Initial setup can be admittedly costly, but the long-term savings of a wood heating system are definitely attractive. However, wood stoves come with a multitude of potential safety hazards. When using a wood stove, child safety standards are essential.

Screening the Stove

• As recommended by the One Beacon Insurance Company, a protective screen or gate placed around your stove will lower risks associated with both children and pets.

Firewood Storage

• While an in-home supply of wood is convenient, it can be a source of splinters for children. Make sure your firewood is kept safely out of reach inside the screened stove enclosure.

Feeding the Fire

• Make sure you remove any children from the vicinity before feeding a wood stove. No matter how carefully you feed the fire, there is always a moderate risk of embers wafting out of the stove.

Upkeep

• Regularly cleaning the stove's exhaust pipe or chimney will ensure child safety. An unclean pipe can become backed up, causing harmful carcinogens to spread throughout the house.

Set An Example

• While you should never allow a child to adjust the gate, feed the fire or clean the chimney, it is important for the child to see you acting cautiously during these activities. Use thick, protective gloves and wear a dust mask to avoid breathing in ashes.