| ParrotChronicles.com |
 The Net is a big place. Let the Product Finder help you find what you're looking for. 
 Return to current Ask Dr. Harris column. Home. Back issues. Article index. Search this site or the Internet:
 Message Center. Editor's Weblog: Diary of a mad parrot lover. Bird clubs. Bird rescue groups. Avian veterinarians. Advertise. Classifieds. Contact us.  Parrot index. Read about the different species. FAQ. How to care for your parrot. Hazards. How to make your home safe for your bird. Glossary. From blood feather to psittacosis, learn the lingo. |
  Fireplaces are safe - if maintained Can you use ceramic logs in the same room as birds? If not, our birds have a sleeping room away from the family room with the fireplace. Would they be safe in this room when we use the fireplace, then could we return them to the family room the following morning? -- Lucy Surchik CERAMIC LOGS should be okay. The electric type are safe as long as there is no Teflon in their construction. The other type, which uses a gas flame, also should be fine as long as you maintain a good draft up the chimney. Wood and pellet fireplaces also are safe as long as they are properly maintained. The flue needs to be cleaned at least once a year and, if installed, the catalytic converter serviced as well. A proper draft up the flue should prevent any fumes from contaminating room air. And, of course, it should go without saying that open fireplaces should always be screened, even if your bird is clipped, to avert tragedy of another sort. ParrotChronicles.com ------- 
|
 |