Quick Answer: Never pour water on a fire! Instead, follow these 5 simple steps to safely extinguish your fireplace fire:
1️⃣ Spread the embers and logs with a fireplace poker to cool them down.
2️⃣ Shovel cool ashes over the embers to smother any remaining heat.
3️⃣ Sprinkle baking soda over the fire to eliminate lingering sparks.
4️⃣ Monitor the fireplace for at least 15 minutes to ensure the fire is fully out.
5️⃣ Clean out the ashes the next day, leaving a thin layer to protect the brick.
For emergencies, use a fire extinguisher—not water!
Step-by-Step Guide to Extinguishing a Fireplace Fire
1️⃣ Spread Out the Embers & Logs
Use a fireplace poker to spread out burning wood and embers.
Flatten everything to cool it down faster.
DO NOT use random sticks, brooms, or household items—they can catch fire!
2️⃣ Cover the Embers with Cool Ashes
Take a fireplace shovel and scoop cool ashes from the edges of the fire.
Pour them over glowing embers to smother the fire.
Repeat until all embers appear dark and lifeless.
3️⃣ Sprinkle Baking Soda Over the Ashes
Baking soda releases carbon dioxide, which suffocates the fire.
Pour a thin layer over any remaining embers.
This is the same ingredient used in fire extinguishers!
4️⃣ Monitor the Fireplace for 15 Minutes
Stay in the room and watch for any signs of smoke or reignition.
If you see glowing embers, repeat steps 2 and 3.
Never go to bed until you're 100% sure the fire is out!
5️⃣ Clean Out the Ashes (But Leave a Thin Layer!)
Wait until the next day before cleaning to avoid burns.
Use a metal ash container—never a plastic bag or vacuum!
Leave a thin layer of ash to protect the fireplace bricks.
Emergency? Here’s What to Do!
If the fire is out of control
✅ Use a fire extinguisher (Class B or C for gas fireplaces, Class A for wood-burning).
✅ Never use water! It creates a huge smoke cloud and can damage the fireplace.
✅ Call 911 if the fire spreads beyond the fireplace.
Pro Tip: Always keep a working fire extinguisher in every room with a fireplace!
How to Put Out a Fire in a Log Burner
1️⃣ Close the burner door to limit oxygen.
2️⃣ Shut all air vents to suffocate the fire.
3️⃣ Make sure the damper is open to prevent smoke from filling the room.
4️⃣ Wait for the fire to die down naturally (a few minutes).
5️⃣ Use a poker to spread out the ash and check for glowing embers.
6️⃣ Sprinkle baking soda to fully extinguish remaining heat.
7️⃣ Once cooled, sweep up the ashes and clean your burner as usual.
How to Put Out a Fire in a Fireplace
✔ NEVER leave a fire unattended!
✔ Always use the right tools (fireplace poker, shovel, metal container).
✔ Keep a fire extinguisher nearby for emergencies.
✔ Schedule a professional fireplace inspection annually for safety.
Are you looking for fireplace tools, safety gear, or a new fireplace? Visit Fireplace Distributor for expert advice!
