Identification

• Wood-burning stoves allow for a fire in an enclosed area. The smoke generated by the stove is removed through a chimney. Dangers, including smoke inhalation and fires caused by creosote buildup, can arise if the stove isn't properly maintained.
  
  

Creosote

• Creosote is an acidic, flammable substance that forms in wood-burning stoves because of the gasses that merge and turn to liquid. This happens when temperatures fall below 250 degrees F.
  
  

Significance

• Creosote can cause exploding fires, which travel out of the chimney and ignite the home's structure. Avoid creosote problems by keeping temperatures around 250 degrees F. and burning wood that has about 25 percent moisture content.
  
  

Smoke Inhalation

• Asthma symptoms can arise due to the smoke from wood-burning stoves. The particles in smoke will find their way into the bloodstream and can lead to a variety of breathing problems.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• The stoves will be safe and economical if proper safety procedures are followed. Having the chimney swept and checking the temperature go a long way toward preventing a problem from occurring. Have the chimney cleaned before it starts getting cool outside. It's a good idea to have wood-burning stoves inspected at the beginning of winter or fall.