Baby, it’s cold outside! Now that the weather has turned chilly in the evenings, thoughts have turned from swimming pools and air conditioning to hot chocolate and a cozy fire.

When you get ready to light your first fire of the season, Traton Homes wants to remind you to take some precautions.

If you just moved into your new home, you won’t need to worry about having your chimney cleaned, but if you’ve been enjoying fires in there for years, an annual cleaning and inspection from a certified professional is recommended.

Whenever you enjoy a fire, be sure to use a mesh screen or decorative fireplace screen to keep burning embers in. Never close glass doors while  a fire is lit to keep creosote from building up in the chimney.

Build a small fire than can burn completely. Place logs at the rear of the fireplace on a grate and use only seasoned hardwood. Never, ever use flammable liquids to start a fire.

For a full list of fireplace safety tips, visit FEMA’s website.

Stay safe this season, and enjoy your evenings cuddled around the fire.