Just a short century ago, fireplaces were the primary heat source in most homes. Today, about a third of Americans, many in rural areas, still count on them (or wood stoves or other fuel-fired appliances) to stay warm during winter—while the rest of users enjoy their glow, crackle and the cozy atmosphere they create.

Whether you’re staving off shivers, staging a romantic interlude or just snuggling up with a good book, follow these guidelines from the U.S. Fire Administration and the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission to stay safe beside your indoor fireplace:

•  First, be sure the fireplace is actually a fireplace—not a decorative piece. If it’s in your home, you probably already know. But double check if you’re in a vacation rental.

•  Before use, inspect the fireplace to make sure the smoke ducts and chimney are clear. If you can, have a certified specialist clean the chimney once a year.

•  Open the damper before starting the fire (and leave it open until ashes have cooled). Never restrict air supply to fireplaces, which can lead to chimney fires.

•  Never use flammable liquids (paint thinner, nail polish remover, gasoline, etc.) to start or re-light a fire—the vapors can explode.

•  Burn only seasoned hardwood, not moist wood, which can lead to accelerated production of creosote—a thick, black, oily substance created by fire.

•  Never use coal or charcoal in the fireplace—it can lead to carbon monoxide buildup.

•  Avoid burning cardboard boxes, wrappings and other trash, which can emit chemical fumes and create paper embers that could ignite your roof.

•  Build small fires to produce less smoke.

•   If using artificial logs, which are made from a combination of sawdust or wood particles and wax, follow manufacturer’s instructions carefully. They burn differently and have different safety requirements than real wood.

•  Leave glass doors open while fire is lit; use a metal-mesh fireplace screen to prevent embers from escaping.

•  Do not overload the fireplace—which can lead to dangerous overheating of walls or roof materials.

•  Place larger logs at the rear of the fireplace, on an adequate-sized supportive grate.

•  Never leave a fireplace unattended. Make sure the fire is completely extinguished before going to bed or leaving the house.

•  Soak hot ashes in water and place them in a metal container outside your home.

•  Stack firewood at least 30 feet away from your home.