When the holidays roll in across NYC and Long Island, most families turn to their fireplaces to bring a little extra warmth and festive comfort into their homes. But with Christmas trees, string lights, candles, and more time spent indoors, this season also brings a higher risk of chimney fires, carbon monoxide issues, and other fire hazards many homeowners don’t realize are lurking. Before you settle in to enjoy those cozy moments, here’s how to keep your fireplace — and your family — safe all season long.
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When the temperatures drop across NYC and Long Island, most families start doing the same thing—pulling out holiday decorations, setting up the Christmas Tree, and lighting the first fire of the season. A few winters ago, I met a homeowner in Massapequa who said he only lit his fireplace for “special moments.” But during his annual inspection, we found creosote buildup thick enough to spark a small chimney fire. It reminded me how quickly a cozy holiday moment can turn into a home fire if we don’t keep safety in mind.
This guide breaks down smart, simple tips to keep your fireplace safe during the holiday season—especially for families in NYC apartments, Long Island colonials, and multi-family homes where space, décor, and heat sources mix.
Start with the Basics: Chimney Inspections, Firewood & Regular Maintenance
A safe fireplace always starts with a clean chimney flue. Creosote buildup remains the most common cause of chimney fires in New York homes. Even a little bit can ignite like wrapping paper tossed into a flame.
Why Professional Chimney Inspections Matter
A certified chimney sweep can spot issues you won’t notice—loose chimney caps, cracked flue tiles, structural issues, and obstructions that push smoke and dangerous fumes back into your home.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), a yearly professional chimney inspection is one of the most effective ways to prevent home fires.
Choose the Right Type of Wood
Think of seasoned hardwoods as the “premium fuel” for your fireplace. They burn hotter, cleaner, and produce far less creosote.
Avoid throwing in:
- Christmas tree branches
- Wrapping paper
- Painted or pressure-treated wood
These can create sparks, toxic fumes, or intense flames that your system was never built for.
Holiday Decorations & Heat Sources: A Hidden Fire Hazard
NYC and Long Island homes get packed with festive spirit—string lights, plastic decorations, decorative candle rings, and electrical cords everywhere. Beautiful, but risky.
Keep Décor Away from the Hearth
Fabric stockings, garlands, and holiday figurines can ignite simply from radiant heat—not just direct flame. If you’re using the fireplace, take them down temporarily.
Be mindful of:
- Christmas tree lights (especially older wiring)
- Touch LED lights that can overheat cheap decorations
- Extension cords running across rugs
- Candle holders placed near the hearth
FDNY reports that candle fires and electrical fires spike sharply from November to January.
Watch Space Heaters & Glass Doors
If you use additional heating systems, keep space heaters at least three feet from your tree and far from drapes. And remember: fireplace glass doors can heat up enough to burn skin in seconds—use a safety screen or spark screen to prevent accidents.
Protect Your Home with Detectors, Extinguishers & a Simple Escape Plan
Fire safety isn’t just about the flame—it’s about early detection and preparation.
Smoke Alarms, CO Detectors & Ventilation
Every home should have:
- Smoke detectors (test monthly)
- Carbon monoxide detectors near bedrooms
- CO alarms close to the fireplace room
Carbon monoxide poisoning rises in winter months when heating systems run nonstop and windows stay shut.
Fire Extinguisher: Know the PASS Method
Keep an ABC-rated fire extinguisher accessible—not on the mantel, but close enough to grab.
Remember the PASS method:
Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep.
Have a Family Escape Plan
Many NYC Fire Safety Department guides recommend a simple, practiced fire escape plan—especially in multi-level Long Island homes where cooking fires or electrical fires can spread quickly.
Build, Manage & Extinguish Your Fire the Safe Way
Even seasoned homeowners forget a few key steps.
Open the Damper First & Use a Fireplace Screen
Opening the damper prevents smoke damage and keeps fumes from backing into your home. Use a wire mesh screen or fireplace screen to stop sparks from popping onto flooring or fire-resistant materials.
Never Leave a Fire Unattended
This is when most house fires occur. Kids, pets, and visiting family move fast—you need a clear line of sight to that flame at all times.
Dispose of Ashes Properly
Ashes can stay hot for hours. Use a metal container with a lid and store it well away from siding or decks. This is a step many homeowners overlook during post-holiday cleaning.
Enjoy the Holidays Without Worry
A safe fireplace brings warmth, light, and time for family—but only when you give it proper care. For annual inspections, chimney sweeps, repairs, and holiday safety checks, call Certified Chimney NY at 877-793-3712.
We’ll make sure your season stays cozy, safe, and free from fire risks.
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