Available on the market are gas logs meant for two different types of burning appliances. There are gas logs that must be vented to the outside in either a regular wood-burning fireplace or a specialized gas fireplace with a vent. The other type of gas log doesn't vent at all. In fact, it is designed to consume its gas before any dangerous gasses release in a home. These logs create an extremely hot flame that just about completely consumes the gasses, which lowers the level of carbon monoxide and debris that other logs create.



When looking at unvented logs, be certain the log comes with an oxygen depletion sensor. This basically turns off the gas before carbon monoxide can reach a toxic level in a room.

In general, vented logs can be burned in any fireplace or other appliance that's meant for burning logs that also includes a vent to the outdoors. The unvented type can be burned in both of those, plus it can go in unvented hearths as well, as long as the item is rated for burning logs.

No matter the type of logs you choose to burn, there are some advantages to using gas logs. They include:

* Ease of purchase. Gas logs can be picked up in a number of places unlike actual wood logs.

* Economy for occasional burns. It's cheaper in the long run to purchase gas logs for burns that are only meant for creating ambiance.

* Ambiance is still present. Gas or wood, a roaring fire in a hearth sets a great tone for a family dinner or a romantic night.

Although a beautiful fire can add an appeal to a room and a home, anyone who chooses to burn a log - gas or otherwise - should follow some basic safety procedures. Fire is dangerous and it must be contained and treated with a healthy level of respect.

Fireplace safety includes:

* Keeping anything that can combust away from the fireplace. Even if the grate is in place, papers and other highly flammable objects should never be stored in close proximity to the hearth.

* Keep fireplace doors open during use, but do cover with the grate.

* Never, ever, ever go to sleep with logs on the fire.

* Install a carbon monoxide sensor in your home. This should be done with or without a fireplace for added family security, but it's a must for those with a fireplace, gas or not.

* Keep a window in the room slightly ajar when gas logs are burning. This is a good idea, too, with wood logs.

* Make sure any fireplace that's installed meets safety and code requirements.

* Follow manufacturer instructions when using gas logs and fireplaces.

A gas fireplace log has a lot of advantages over wood for those who want an alternative to chopping or hunting down wood. Whether the fire will include wood or gas logs, however, safety should be a No. 1 concern. Use common sense and take some safety precautions and the use of gas logs should help create some serious ambiance in your home. Just remember to be smart in the process.