We just renovated this fireplace over the summer, so it has never been used. We live in Dallas...very mild winters, but every once in a while we can fire up the fireplace.

I want it to be safe, but at the same time I want it to look good - it really gets used a few times at most.

1 - Is it safe to put a fire in here without a screen of some sort?

2 - If not, I was considering a stainless steel mesh curtain type - not black, stainless metal colored. Is that going to be enough protection from sparks? Will it discolor?

Thanks in advance!

Deb