December 23, 2023 Issue, Page 12 of 24

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PG4 HOMETOWN TIDINGS ing to ensure everything is in good perfect Christmas photo backdrop, condition. The chimney also should Christmas trees and _ fireplaces be swept to remove excess debris should not be near each other. and buildup that could pose a fire Also, the Christmas tree is not safe hazard. to burn in the fireplace after the - Keep items away from the fire- season, as the wood has not been place. Wrapping paper, rugs, cloth- properly dried or seasoned. ing, magazines, and the like should - Use a screen on the fireplace. be kept at least three feet away from Make sure the fireplace is properly the flames, suggests the American covered by a screen to stop embers Red Cross. Also, make sure decora- from escaping when the wood pops tions are hung securely and a safe and sparks,The screen also can help distance away from the fire. keep decorations and other objects - Check your smoke alarms. Be from falling into the fire. sure the home has working smoke Promptly Keep the fireplace clean. alarms on every level of the house. bris from remove any ash and de- the fireplace after it has And keep a fire extinguisher close cooled to improve indoor air qual- to the fireplace. ity and provide greater control over : Never burn wrapping paper. the next fire when it is burned, Gatherings with family and Of course, fireplaces also serve as in advance of the holiday entertain- Wrapping paper contains addi- advises the American Society of friends are an integral component popular gathering spots in homes ing season. tives, like dyes, that make it burn Home Inspectors. of the holiday season. Certain that feature them. - Have the fireplace inspected extremely hot. Do not think of dis- Fireplaces bring warmth and add rooms in the house are on display Lighting a fire in the hearth can and swept professionally. Prior to carding wrapping paper by burning ambiance to a home, particularly more than others, with kitchens, make any space more cozy, but do- lighting the first fire of the season, it in the fireplace. during the holidays. But safety dining rooms and living areas serv- ing so comes with some hazards. ensure that a professional inspects + Keep the tree a safe distance must prevail when lighting fire- ing as popular places to congregate. Consider these fireplace safety tips the fireplace, chimney and vent- away. Although it makes for the places. WISHING YOU Cistomén hdFond UB]InterBank QBpic 1620 W. 3rd St, Elk City 580-225-5580 + 123 W. Main St, Sayre 580-928-5511 1204 S. Main St, Elk City, OK * 580-225-8473