Chimney and woodstove safety

I came across this article that I found to be a good reminder as we begin to stoke the fireplace this winter…..

Chimney and Woodstove Fire Safety

Courtesy of THE LIFELINE

Local news from Sandy Fire District #72

A chimney that is dirty, blocked or is in disrepair can inhibit proper venting of smoke up the flue; can cause a chimney fire, and/or carbon monoxide poisoning. Nearly all residential fires originating in the chimney are preventable by a simple chimney inspection and if needed, a cleaning.

CHIMNEY SAFETY TIPS:

· Have your chimney inspected every year.

· Burn only well seasoned wood (Don’t burn trash in the fire place). Hardwoods have less creosote build-up than softwoods.

· Install a carbon monoxide detector.

· Install a chimney cap.

· Have your chimney flashing inspected and maintained.

· Keep fires the right size for the fireplace.

· Don’t use fire starters (charcoal lighter, kerosene or gasoline) to start the fire.

· Be sure the damper is open before starting a fire.

· A screen or glass doors should cover the front of the fireplace to prevent sparks from escaping out into the room.

· Woodstoves should have clearance per manufacturer’s instructions.

· Ashes should be removed and placed in a metal container well away from the home and any combustibles. Stir and ensure they are cool to the touch before being placed in a trash container that is not on a deck.

· Always supervise children. Never leave small children alone in a room with a fire.

· Fireplaces and woodstoves radiate heat just like space heaters so keep furniture and other combustibles a safe distance away.

If you think you have a chimney fire,

LEAVE the house and call 9-1-1

Sandy, Oregon District’s Main Station has flue cleaning brushes available,

17460 Bruns Ave, Sandy

Before you stop by to check out the brushes measure the size of the inside of your flue, and determine its shape. Brushes in stock are 6”, 8”, 10” and 12” and are round or square. There are many varieties of flues and each brush is designed to work with a different size and style. Information on the depth of your chimney will be useful as well. Also, please plan to return the brushes the next day so everyone has a chance to use them.

Check your local fire station to see what resources they may also have available to you.

For more information on this subject, check out this link

http://www.epa.gov/burnwise/bestburn.html