FB

Chimney Fire Safety in Houston, TX

Every year, firefighters respond to thousands of chimney fires worldwide. However, the majority of these chimney fires are avoidable. These fires are often the result of stuck debris in the flue that has not been cleaned out. Chimney flues should be inspected and cleaned on a regular basis to help prevent chimney fires.

This article will teach you how to prevent chimney fires and different chimney fire safety strategies to implement in your home.

What is a chimney fire, and why is it so dangerous?

What is a chimney fire, and why is it so dangerous?

The primary cause of chimney fires is creosote. Creosote is a highly flammable substance that coats the chimney walls. It is dark brown in color and very difficult to see with the naked eye as it often blends in with the walls. Pending the temperature and amount of creosote inside the chimney flue, the creosote can catch fire. Once that first spark is thrown, and spreads up the flue, it’s very hard to control.

Chimney fires are dangerous because they can quickly spread to other parts of the house, putting those inside the home at risk. Not only that, but they can also cause extensive damage to the chimney itself and integrity of the home.

Chimney fire safety tips to help avoid a chimney fire

To keep you safe from a chimney fire, you must take the necessary precautions. These precautions include ensuring your chimney is swept regularly, depending on the fuel you use. We also strongly advise all homeowners to have a working smoke alarm in their homes.

Our main point is to keep your chimney clean!

Here are some pointers to make your chimney safer:

  • Keep chimneys and flues clean and in good working order.
  • Make sure all embers are properly extinguished before going to bed.
  • Keep your firewood at least 30 feet away from your home.
  • A mesh screen spark arrester should be placed over the chimney.
  • Remove any branches dangling above the chimney, flues, or vents.
  • To avoid flying sparks from hot embers, always use a fireguard.

To keep you and your loved ones safe from the dangers of a chimney fire, have your chimney swept on a regular basis and before the colder winter months arrive. Consider these general rules for chimney sweeping:

  • For Smokeless fuels, sweep once/year minimum
  • For bituminous coal, sweep twice/year minimum
  • For Wood – sweep every 3 months when used regularly
  • Oil – sweep once/year minimum
  • For gas – sweep once/year minimum
In the event of a house fire, a smoke alarm can give you the extra time you need to escape; make sure you test yours on a regular basis.

Conclusion

A rapidly spreading chimney fire can wreak havoc on walls, ceilings, attics, framing, and furniture. All of those repair and replacement costs can quickly add up. They can also put you and your family at risk, and you are most definitely not replaceable

The wise choice is clear: schedule routine inspections and cleanings for your chimney system with us today.

Chimney fire safety tips