It’s frustrating to be ready to start a fire and realise you’re out of firewood. By maintaining a supply of firewood, you and your family can enjoy the warmth and ambience of a backyard fire all year round. However, following some basic safety guidelines to prevent injuries when storing and using firewood is important. Although firewood-related injuries are uncommon, they can happen. Here are some tips to help you stay safe.

Keep Firewood Stacks Under 4 Feet

Stack firewood no higher than 4 feet to prevent it from collapsing. If the stack falls while you’re nearby, it could cause injury. This height is why both full cords and half cords are typically around 4 feet tall. You can stack firewood on a wooden pallet or a similar off-the-ground surface, but using a rack is recommended for more stability and security.

Remove Firewood From the Top First

Always take firewood from the top of the stack first. Pulling a log from the bottom, even if it’s the perfect size, can cause the stack to collapse, much like a game of Jenga. Remove firewood from the top and work your way down to avoid this.

Don’t Burn Wet Wood

Avoid burning wet wood. Whether you’re using it in a campfire, fire pit, fireplace, or wood-burning stove, only use dry wood that has been properly seasoned or kiln-dried. Freshly harvested wood, known as green wood, contains over 90% moisture, making it hard to ignite and producing a lot of soot and smoke. According to a University of Illinois study cited by Hunker, burning wet or green wood in a fireplace causes creosote buildup, which can lead to dangerous explosions. Seasoned and kiln-dried firewood has a low moisture content, burns hot, clean, and efficiently, and produces minimal smoke.

Wear Gloves When Handling Firewood

If you’re only grabbing a log or two, gloves might not be necessary. However, if you’re moving or handling large stacks, gloves are essential. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), wood is the most common type of splinter. Handling firewood with bare hands can result in splinters, which can cause infection. Protect your hands from splinters, cuts, and scrapes by wearing gloves.

Avoid Using Gasoline or Charcoal Lighter Fluid

Never use gasoline or charcoal lighter fluid to ignite your firewood. These accelerants are hard to control and can create large fireballs. The fumes from gasoline, for example, can ignite and cause a dangerous explosion. Additionally, using these substances releases toxic gases. Instead, use fire starters for a safer way to start your fire without risking injury.

Create a Minimum of 10 Feet Clearance When Burning Firewood

Ensure there’s at least 10 feet of clearance around your fire in all directions. This means your fire should be at least 10 feet away from any structures and combustible objects to prevent accidental fires.

Beware of Hot Ash

Don’t assume your grill or fire pit is cool just because the firewood has burned down to ash and is no longer glowing. Ashes can remain hot for up to 48 hours, as the outer layers insulate the inner layers. Use an ash shovel to transfer ash into a metal can safely.

If you’re looking to buy high-quality firewood, visit our order page today. EasyFlame is the premier vendor for firewood logs, kiln-dried logs, and fireside accessories. We offer kiln-dried hardwood logs, firewood for sale, log delivery, and the best wood for log burners. For reliable firewood supplies and home fire kiln-dried logs, trust EasyFlame.