How do you use a fireplace?

To use a fireplace, open the flue, lay small kindling sticks over balls of crumpled newspaper on the grate, light the paper and add logs as the kindling catches fire. Only use wood that is properly dried, and place a screen in front of the flames for safety.

The fireplace flue damper is a small handle that opens and closes the chimney. If you are not sure if your flue damper is open, light a small piece of paper on fire, and hold it near the top of the fireplace. If the damper is open and clear, the smoke rises up the chimney and does not blow back into the house.