6 Simple Ways to Help Prevent Chimney Fires

It is vital to understand the importance of preventing chimney fires. A dangerous myth regarding these household threats is that they can help to save money on chimney cleaning by burning out creosote. In reality, virtually every chimney fire causes structural damage. A common type of damage resulting from a chimney fire is deterioration to the chimney flue liner. When there is even a tiny crack in the flue, occupants inside are exposed to potentially life-threatening dangers. Below, learn simple ways to help prevent chimney fires.

Schedule Annual Chimney Inspections and Cleaning

To help prevent the potential for a home chimney fire, schedule annual chimney inspections and cleaning. After expert chimney sweeps inspect your venting system, you may receive a thumbs-up or get advice on preventing an immediate threat of a chimney fire. For example, the chimney sweep expert who inspects your chimney may discover that the chimney flue is obstructed. Whether the obstruction is caused by flammable debris or creosote buildup, chimney cleaning can remove the danger and help prevent a chimney fire.

Don’t Overheat the Fireplace

Keep in mind that the size of the fires you build can contribute to the prevention of chimney fires. Make sure that the grate in your fireplace is the correct size. If the grate is too large, it will encourage larger fires that increase creosote buildup and the threat of home fires.

Burn Only Seasoned Wood

There are two basic types of firewood, those being hardwoods and softwoods. Seasoned firewood has a moisture content of 25% or below. Since trees cut down for firewood are usually bursting with moisture, storage of the wood is necessary while the wood dries out.

Many types of materials are dangerous because when they are burning, floating embers go up the chimney and can ignite creosote deposits. For example, never burn garbage, paper, wrapping paper, plants, or Christmas trees. Burn only seasoned hardwoods and seasoned softwoods in fireplaces.

Never Use Combustible Liquids in the Fireplace

Flammable liquids should never be used to start or revive a fire. Flames can become out of control rapidly when flammable liquids are used. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that during a recent five-year period, an average of 160,910 fires per year were reportedly started by using a flammable liquid as the first type of material ignited. The fires caused an average of 454 civilian deaths each year.

Maintain an Air Supply in the Fireplace

When there is an inadequate amount of air supply, fires become listless. The formation of highly flammable creosote is increased when airflow is lacking. Most modern homes are airtight. Adjustments may need to be made, such as opening a window near the fireplace, to ensure an adequate supply of air.

Cut Firewood Correctly

Be sure that the firewood cut for your fireplace is the correct size. Burning firewood that fits appropriately inside the fireplace is another way to avoid such dangers as overheating the chimney and igniting a chimney fire.

Contact Dubuque Fire & Patio for a Chimney Inspection

Dubuque Fire & Patio offers chimney inspections, chimney cleaning, and chimney maintenance services. To avoid the dangers associated with a chimney fire, give us a call at (563) 582-5156 today. Our sister store, Chimney Specialists, Inc., is more convenient for anyone living in or around Highland WI, and their number is (608) 929-4887.