Stay Warm, Stay Safe
As temperatures drop, many households rely on wood stoves to stay warm. Following a few simple safety practices can help prevent fires, reduce smoke emissions, and keep your family safe throughout the heating season.
Before You Burn
Choose a Certified Wood Stove
When purchasing a new wood stove, ensure it is CSA- or EPA-certified. Certified appliances are designed to burn more efficiently, produce fewer emissions, and meet modern safety standards.
Learn more about the Wildsight Community Wood Smoke Reduction Program and how you can apply for a rebate to install an electric heat pump, wood pellet stove or new *CSA/EPA (2020) certified wood stove through Wildsight.
Ensure Proper Installation
Wood stoves, chimney connectors, and chimneys should be installed according to manufacturer specifications and applicable building codes. If you are installing a new stove or replacing an existing unit, consider hiring a qualified professional to ensure the installation is safe and compliant.
If you are adding or moving a wood stove or other solid-fuel burning application, you need a building permit.
Safe Wood Stove Use
- Keep your wood stove at least three feet (one metre) away from furniture, curtains, firewood, and other combustible materials.
- Use a CSA- or EPA-certified wood stove.
- Burn only dry, seasoned wood. Never burn garbage, treated wood, or other inappropriate materials.
- Have your stove and chimney inspected and cleaned annually by a certified chimney sweep, ideally before heating season begins.
- Install carbon monoxide alarms outside sleeping areas and on every level of your home, and test them regularly.
- Dispose of ashes in a covered metal container and store it at least 10 feet (three metres) away from buildings and combustible materials until the ashes are completely cool.
- Supervise children around operating wood stoves and maintain a three-foot safety zone around the appliance.
Burn Wisely
Help improve air quality by:
- Avoiding wood burning on days when air pollution levels are high.
- Maintaining a hot, steady fire.
- Avoiding smouldering fires, which produce higher levels of smoke and particulate matter.