Family Fireplace Safety: Protecting Children and Pets at Home
There’s nothing quite like the warmth of a real fire; it brings comfort, character and a lovely focal point to your home. But if you’ve got small children or pets, safety becomes just as important as style.
Whether you're using a log burner, a gas fire, or an electric media wall setup, it's essential to take a few extra precautions. This guide will walk you through the simple but important steps you can take to make your fireplace safe for every member of the family; including the smallest ones.
1. Fit a Proper Fire Guard or Safety Gate
The first step in making your fireplace safer is installing a sturdy fire guard. It should completely block off access to the flames and be stable enough that it won’t topple over easily.
Many modern guards are designed to blend in with your decor while keeping little hands and paws well away from the heat. If you have an open fire or a wood-burning stove, this is especially important.
2. Choose a Fire That Suits Family Life
Some types of fires are naturally safer than others when it comes to homes with children or pets.
Electric fires are a great option. They don't use real flames, often stay cool to the touch, and can be operated remotely.
Glass-fronted gas fires offer real heat and visual appeal without the risks of exposed flames or hot surfaces.
Built-in media wall fires are also ideal for family homes, since they're mounted out of reach and are often enclosed.
When choosing a fire, consider how it will be used day to day, and how accessible it will be to curious little ones or pets.
3. Always Have It Professionally Installed and Serviced
Safety starts with correct installation. Whether you’re installing a gas fire, electric fire, or wood-burning stove, it should always be fitted by a qualified professional.
Professional installation ensures the unit is safely connected, ventilated, and working as it should. Just as important is regular maintenance — having your fire or stove checked annually can catch small issues before they become serious, and keep everything running efficiently.
If you're using a stove or open fire, this also includes regular chimney sweeping and flue inspections.
4. Be Aware of Hot Surfaces
Even fires with sealed glass fronts can radiate heat into surrounding surfaces. Tiles, hearths, glass panels, and even the air above the fire can get surprisingly warm.
To prevent burns or accidental injuries:
Keep soft furnishings and toys well away from the area
Use padding on sharp hearth corners
Supervise whenever the fire is on
5. Install a Carbon Monoxide Alarm
If you're using any kind of gas, wood-burning, or multifuel fire, a carbon monoxide detector is absolutely essential. Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless gas and in the wrong conditions, it can be harmful or even fatal.
A detector will alert you if levels rise unexpectedly. It’s one of the simplest and most important safety tools you can install in your home.
6. Store Fireplace Tools and Logs Safely
Fireplace accessories can pose real risks in a busy home. Tools like pokers or brushes are often heavy and sharp, while loose logs or kindling can create trip hazards.
Keep tools either locked away or safely behind the fire guard, and store logs in secure containers or baskets that can't be easily tipped over.
7. Use Childproof Controls Wherever Possible
Modern fires, especially electric ones, often come with remote controls or app-based features. This makes them easy to operate from a distance — and safer for children.
If your setup doesn’t have built-in safety features, consider adding a childproof switch or control lock to prevent accidental operation.
8. Talk About Fire Safety Early
Physical safety measures are vital, but so is education. It’s never too early to start talking to children about how fire works and why it needs to be respected.
Create clear rules about not touching the fire, not playing nearby, and always asking an adult for help. Keep lighters and matches completely out of sight and reach.
Creating a Safe and Stylish Space
Whether you’re upgrading an existing fireplace or looking for a new fire that’s perfect for family life, you don’t have to choose between comfort and safety.
At Camden Fires, we’re here to help you find the right solution for your home. From electric fires with advanced safety features to enclosed gas models and modern media wall installations, we offer products that combine warmth, style, and peace of mind.
If you have any questions about choosing a safe fire, need help with installation advice, or want to learn more about maintenance, get in touch. We’re always happy to help.
