Did you know more than 25,000 chimney fires occur each year? The main cause for a chimney fire is a substance called creosote. Highly flammable and dark brown in color, creosote is formed when by-products of burning (smoke, vapor, and unburned wood) condenses and moves from the hot fireplace into the cooler chimney. A chimney that is not regularly maintained will have a larger build up of creosote and if the temperature in the chimney reaches a high enough temperature, the creosote can catch fire.
Many of us in the Penn Forest Township use a fireplace or wood stove as a heat source during the winter months. Before lighting that first fire of the season, make sure you have had your chimney inspected, repaired and cleaned.
In addition, keep the following best practices for burning in mind:
- Only burn seasoned wood – this will help to minimize creosote build-up.
- Schedule a professional cleaning and inspection annually – a professional will clear the creosote build-up in the chimney and look for possible cracks, obstructions or damage to the fireplace, chimney and venting system.
- Install a chimney cap – prevents debris and animals from getting inside the chimney and protect the chimney liner from corrosion.
- Practice clean burning – never use gasoline or kerosene as a fire starter. Also avoid burning cardboard or glossy paper as these emit toxins into the chimney and home. Stick to seasoned wood, twigs, branches, old newspaper and pinecones.
