We are well into the fall season and many people have already had to turn on their heat with the falling temperatures. Using wood stoves as a heating source continues to remain popular around the state. However, there are several safety measures that should be taken to make sure wood stove operates safely.

Brighton Fire Chief Bill Farmer says the first place to start is your chimney; make sure the chimney is clear of anything that might block the outflow from the stove from exiting the house. This also includes checking to make sure no birds have decided to make your chimney their home over the summer months. Statistics show that 90% of wood stove fires start in the chimney area.

Farmer says to watch to make sure you have plenty of distance between the stove itself and any walls or curtains in the residence. He also says to remind children the stove is hot when being used and shouldn’t be touched.