Antique fire tools were a practical necessity, used to maintain fireplaces safely and efficiently. Common tools in fire tool sets include a poker (to move burning logs and control the fire), tongs (for lifting and moving logs), and a shovel and broom (to remove ash and sweep to keep the fireplace clean). Both the English and the French designed fire tool sets to enhance the aesthetic appeal of a home. Today they add an additional touch of historical integrity to a fireplace setting.