It is not used to clean anything. It is not used near a flame. It is not a fastener of any kind. It kind of does, but it is not a footpeg of any kind. Good guesses though. A hint: It is never used inside a building. It is always used outdoors.
He said it is not used near a fire. Is he being coy in that you would use this when there would not be a fire present - ie glowing coals or no heat at all? I would not put it past the bearded one.
