Chimney Fire

Detecting a Chimney Fire

The first indication of a chimney fire is usually the noise - a roaring sound that grows louder as the fire's intensity increases. Most say it sounds like a train in the chimney. Clouds of black smoke and sparks will be seen exiting the top of the chimney. In severe fires, flames can extend several feet above the chimney.

Do not use the chimney until it has been inspected by Safe Side Chimney Service. The excessive heat produced by a chimney fire can crack chimney walls, damage chimney liners, and damage roofs etc. If not repaired, these damages create a greater possibility for any subsequent chimney fire and/or carbon monoxide to spread beyond the confines of the flue to the house.

Preventing Chimney Fires

Chimney fires do not occur in clean, intact, properly installed chimneys. Have Safe Side Chimney Service clean and inspect your appliance at least once a year. More frequent cleanings may be required, based on the type of wood burned, the type of appliance and its installation, and the frequency of use. In general, an older, uncertified wood stove, or any appliance that is used frequently, will require more than one cleaning per year.

Chimney Safety

Failing to maintain your wood stove or fireplace properly can lead to a chimney fire. Chimney fires occur when combustible deposits on the inner walls of the chimney ignite. These combustible deposits, called "creosote," are a natural byproduct of wood burning. A fire hazard exists if 1/4 inch of creosote (or more) coats the inner walls of the chimney.

The wood

Use seasoned hard woods. easoned wood is wood that has been SPLIT THEN SITS 8 MONTHS COVERED. A common misconception is the dead tree that has been there for years and is split and burnt right away (not recommended). The wood should be covered and protected from the weather until burn time. Sizzling, steaming, wood that foams from the ends is not recommended to burn.S