Main risks

• Burns from touching surfaces, tools, grates, glass panels or accessories that reach high temperatures.
• Fire caused by sparks, embers or falling logs if screens and guards are not correctly positioned or secured.
• Smoke or hazardous gases due to a blocked draught or the use of incompatible parts in the flue.
• Cuts or pinching injuries when handling metal parts, rods, brushes or glass panels.
• Tipping or falling of baskets, ash buckets or heavy tools in walkways.
• Electrical hazard with fans or other corded accessories when exposed to heat or moisture.
• Irritation of skin, eyes and respiratory tract caused by ash, soot and specialist cleaners.

Safe use

• Check the accessory's compatibility with your type of fireplace (wood-burning, pellet, gas, etc.) and with the appliance and flue dimensions before installing or using.
• Use heat-resistant gloves and, where appropriate, goggles and a mask when cleaning or handling ash and soot.
• Position spark guards and barriers securely, without obstructing air inlets or the flue outlet.
• Keep tools with long, dry handles; avoid bringing hands, sleeves or objects close to the fire.
• Remove ash only when cold; place it in a lidded metal container on a non-combustible surface and away from the building.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions when fitting grates, seals, glass panels or lids; do not force hot parts.
• For electrical accessories, keep cables away from hot surfaces, do not cover ventilation grilles and unplug before cleaning or moving.
• When using brushes and rods, work with controlled movements to avoid sudden dislodging of soot; protect the area around the hearth with heat-resistant material.

Storage and maintenance

• Store tools and screens in a dry, ventilated place, away from heat sources or flames.
• Keep cleaners and chemicals in their original containers, tightly closed and out of reach of children and pets.
• Remove soot and dust with a slightly damp cloth or by vacuuming with an appropriate filter; avoid abrasives on glass or enamelled surfaces unless specified.
• Periodically check for heat warping, torn mesh, loose fasteners, loose handles and cracked cables; replace any damaged components.
• Check the condition of gaskets and rope seals; replace any that are burnt, crushed or frayed.
• After using ash buckets, empty them completely and allow to dry; avoid damp build-up that promotes corrosion.
• Dry metal parts thoroughly after cleaning and store them to minimise rust.

Restrictions on use

• For adult use only; keep children and pets at a distance and under supervision when there is a fire or hot accessories.
• Do not use accessories that are damaged, unstable or deformed by heat.
• Do not obstruct the appliance's air inlets or outlets with baskets, screens, rugs or other items.
• Do not use flammable liquids or accelerants to light or revive the fire, or near the accessories.
• Do not use electrical accessories outdoors or in damp areas unless designed for such use.
• Do not carry out roof work, work on the flue, or structural modifications without appropriate training and equipment; such work should be undertaken by qualified professionals.
• Do not place textiles or combustible objects in front of the hearth unless they are rated for high temperatures; maintain a safe clearance.
• Do not leave the fire burning unattended with guards or tools resting on the hearth edge.