Q&A for How to Light a Fire in a Fireplace

Put a tarp over it. After the wood is stacked on the firewood holder, put a tarp over the wood to keep it dry.

No, starter fluids generate fumes that can be harmful in an indoor environment.

You can light a large 3 wick candle, or simply leave it wide open for a couple of hours. The hairdryer technique works, but it will probably take longer than 30 seconds.

Yes, as long as you follow basic safety protocols.

No, it isn't true. You can light a fire in any weather circumstances that you prefer.

Absolutely, leaves, grass, and other papers are good newspaper substitutes.

I would not recommend it. They will most likely burn too quickly to do any good and also cause a lot of smoke.

Using a knife, potato peeler or similar tool to shave wood will yield wood shavings that can be easily lit with a match. You can also find small twigs outside. Paper bags or old books can also be used as tinder.

I think that you mean a flint, which is a piece of metal/rock. You strike something sharp against it to create a spark.

This is creosote and can be very dangerous if it builds up. This means your chimney needs cleaned in order to prevent a chimney fire. I would recommend getting a chimney cleaning log to burn and consult a professional.

You may be closing it too fast, which sucks the air outside and brings the smoke with it. Try closing it quietly and you should have no smoke anymore in your room.

If it's propane/gas - fueled, use a lit blowtorch to ignite the propane/gas. If it's coal or wood- based, do it the way this article instructs to start a fire without a grate.