Fire Place and Chimney Safety ... Stay Warm AND SAFE

Heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires

​

RISKS

Failing to Maintain and Use Heating Equipment Properly Can Have Many Consequences

• Damage to Chimney

• Carbon Monoxide entering your home

• Damage to your home caused by fire

• Complete loss of home

• Loss of life

​

SIGNS OF A CHIMNEY FIRE

• Loud rumble (Like a freight train)

• Crackling chimney pipes

• Smoke in home

• Dark smoke and embers coming  from chimney

​

PREVENTION

There are many ways to reduce your risk of a chimney or heating system related fire

• Have chimney and heating system inspected annually by a qualified professional

• Don't burn wet or low quality wood

• Follow manufacturer's recommendations for clearances for all heating appliances

• Trim branches close to chimneys

• Dispose of ashes in a metal container with a tight fitting lid and store away from home

• Keep a fire extinguisher in a visible location close to exits

• Clean chimney monthly

• Clean chimney more often if burning wet or low quality wood

• Ensure proper air flow for heating appliances

• Hotter fires produce less creosote

​

OTHER THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

• Working smoke alarms must be installed on every floor and outside sleeping areas

• Homes with fuel burning appliances, and attached garages must have working carbon monoxide alarms installed on every floor and outside sleeping areas

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms monthly

​

Power Outages

• Use battery powered flashlights instead of candles for lighting

• If candles must be used ensure candles are in sturdy candle holders that will not tip over and are covered with a glass shade

• Never leave lit candles unattended

• Run generators a minimum of 20 feet from the home and ensure that the exhaust is pointed away from windows and doors

• Shut off generators and let cool before refueling

• Run portable heaters away from combustible materials and according to manufacturers recommendations

​

Barbeques

• Never use a barbeque indoors

• Store propane cylinders outside in a well ventilated area

​

WHAT TO DO IF YOU SUSPECT A CHIMNEY FIRE

• Get everyone out of the home and somewhere safe

• Call 911

• Close dampers and doors

​

CAUSE

• Creosote buildup

• Creosote is a black or brown residue that can be crusty and flaky, tar-like, or shiny and hardened.  All forms of creosote are highly combustible.  If it builds up in sufficient quantities and the chimney temperature is high enough the result could be a chimney fire

• Combustible materials too close to heating equipment

• Damages or improper chimney/heating equipment

• Improper disposal of ashes

​

​