Whether your fireplace is electric, wood burning or gas, they all generate heat and can therefore be dangerous to children. Children don't automatically know that a fireplace can generate enough heat to burn them. A young cousin of mine fell against the fireplace doors and got 3rd degree burns on both palms of his hands. There is tremendous heat there which is very dangerous.

Here is a list of steps you need to take for improved safety:

1. If your hearth area has sharp edges, pad them with foam or cushions to prevent injury should a child fall against it.

2. Secure your fireplace screens and tools so they cannot be pulled over on top of a little body.

3. Put a heat resistant door in front of the fireplace opening. Regular glass may not work so please ask your dealer about its ability to defray heat so little hands don't get burned. You want it to be fairly cool to the touch.

4. If possible, lock your fireplace doors. If not possible, burn a barrier in front of the fireplace.

5. If you're running a gas fireplace be sure the ability to turn on the gas is locked or hidden.

6. If your fireplace is wood burning, be sure the matches and other flammable items such as paper and instantly igniting wood chips are out of reach or hidden.

7. Take the time to educate your children about the dangers of all fireplaces, remind them of how hot it really is and how easily they can be burned if not careful