Answer:
Very helpful if you intend to go gently down a river.
In your fire you hear me scream! Creaking and whining yet I am dead before you lay me in your hearth.
When I type I tap these on the keys
I am the yellow hem of the sea's blue skirt.
What is it that you must give before you can keep it
Though not a plant, has leaves. Though not a beast, has spine. Though many wouldn't need this thing, It's more valuable than wine.