Wood Burning Stoves and Safety

Health Effects

To avoid health issues, ventilation is crucial. When not used correctly, wood-burning stoves can cause adverse effects on health, especially for people with breathing problems. When it’s operating, there’s carbon monoxide released, and without proper ventilation, it tends to concentrate.

Therefore, having proper air circulation where the wood stove is located is very important. It will ensure that air flows and that the environment is well-ventilated reducing health risks. You can even install carbon monoxide detectors in your home for extra safety.

Outdoor Pollution

Wood-burning stoves can contribute to outdoor pollution. When functioning, these release greenhouse gasses, such as monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (CO2). That’s why ventilation and the type of wood stove you have is key! There are ecological designs that mitigate these pollutants and are more eco-friendly.

Moreover, we strongly suggest hiring a professional when installing your wood stove. Having an expert in the matter of setting it up, choosing the right location for the stove, and also corroborating if the vents are working properly, is crucial. Also, remember to arrange for regular maintenance.

Risk of Fire

Fire is the main cause of accidents with wood-burning stoves. So no matter if it was properly installed or settled in the ideal location, if you aren’t careful daily the potential risk of causing fire is quite high. But there’s no need to panic, the first key step here is to keep away inflammable objects.

Also, if you want, you can add a fire alarm, or even buy a fire distinguisher. There are available discounts when you’re a homeowner, a tenant, or a landlord. And it goes without saying, that you must only use proper burning wood. When you use other materials as fuel, there is a much larger risk of fire, damage, or even pollutant release. These safety measures can help you with your insurance coverage rates.

Conclusion

All in all, we can say that having a wood-burning stove is an enchanting experience. The rustic charm, the smell, the coziness. Yet, there are key measures you have to take into consideration when installing and using it.

Regular maintenance, proper ventilation, and keeping safety fire measures like a fire alarm or a distinguisher are the first key steps. Having proper coverage that keeps you, your loved ones, and your home secure, is the final notch! At PSIC we’re all about your safety, that’s why wood stove inspections are a must when getting your insurance coverage. We recommend you contact an agent for more information and learn more about all the safety measures you can take when keeping your home safe and your coverage at a great price!