Fireplace Safety – Children

The glass barrier on your gas fireplace can heat up to over 200°C (400°F) in about six minutes during use! It takes an average of 45 minutes for the fireplace to cool to a safe temperature after the fire is switched off.

Place a Barrier around your Gas Fireplace

Install safety gates around the gas fireplace or at doorways to the room that has the fireplace. Young children under five years of age, and especially those under two years are most at risk. When young children first learn to walk, they often fall. Hands and fingers are easily burned on the glass and metal parts of the door as young children raise their arms to stop a fall. Also, young children are attracted to the flames and want to touch them.

Teach Children about the Dangers of Fire

Teach your child the dangers of fire, but understand that teaching alone will not prevent your child from a potential injury. Young children, especially toddlers, can be taught a safety rule but will not necessarily follow it. A parent’s supervision is the best measure against preventable accidents. Source: Safe Kids Canada

Supervise your Child

Never leave a young child alone near a gas fireplace as they can be burned before, during and after use of the fireplace.