Chimney Fire Prevention
Have you been taking your chimney for granted?

Most of us do take our chimney for granted.  Like an old favorite, we know it's there, it never breaks, it never lets us down, always reliable.....  But is it?  Now is a great time to find out, before the heating season!

A chimney vents products of combustion (smoke and carbon monoxide) from your home and it allows you to heat your home (wood, pellet or coal stoves, fireplaces, non-direct vent gas and oil systems all use a chimney).  Don't take your chimney for granted, schedule a yearly inspection and cleaning of your chimney with a professional chimney sweep today! 

How do I know if I have a chimney fire?
If you think you may have a chimney fire, leave your home and call 9-1-1.

Since the fire is contained in the chimney – is it safe to let it burn the creosote out?

NO.  A chimney fire is not a safe way to clean a chimney.

Chimney fires only start in the chimney.  Depending on the condition of your chimney the fire can spread through your home through cracks in the chimney's missing or loose mortar, it can also bend metal chimney liners and create cracks.  It can easily spread to your rooftop - or your neighbor's house!

How can I prevent chimney fires in my home?

1. Yearly chimney maintenance.  Have your chimney inspected and cleaned by a professional chimney sweep each year. 
     
2. Burn well-seasoned hardwoods.  Green wood builds up creosote faster.
    
3. Install a chimney cap to prevent things from falling into your chimney and reducing ventilation. 

Safety First!
When removing ashes from your stove make sure:

• The ashes have thoroughly cooled.
• You are disposing them in a sealed metal container.
• You store the ashes away from your home and anything combustible.

Read more about chimney fires.

                             Questions, comments, or suggestions?

                            Greenland Volunteer Fire Department Copyright 2008