Every year Big Bear experiences unnecessary and preventable
chimney fires. To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and
carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances
and fireplaces functioning properly, the Chimney Safety
Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips:
Top 10 Woodburning Tips from CSIA
1. Get an annual chimney check. Have chimneys inspected
annually, and cleaned as necessary, by a qualified professional
chimney service technician. This reduces the risk of fires and
carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or
obstructions in the chimneys.
2. Keep it clear. Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet
away from the top of the chimney.
3. Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the
chimney.
4. Choose the right fuel. For burning firewood in wood stoves or
fireplaces, choose well-seasoned wood that has been split for a
minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and
elevated location. Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in
your fireplace or wood stove.
5. Build it right. Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the
fireplace on a supporting grate. To start the fire, use kindling
or a commercial firelighter. Never use flammable liquids.
6. Keep the hearth area clear. Combustible material too close to
the fireplace, or to a wood stove, could easily catch fire. Keep
furniture at least 36” away from the hearth.
7. Use a fireplace screen. Use metal mesh or a screen in front
of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or
burn holes in the carpet or flooring.
8. Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Place detectors
throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall.
When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time, remember
to check your batteries.
9. Never leave a fire unattended. Before turning in for the
evening, be sure that the fire is fully extinguished. Supervise
children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces.
10. The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA
Certified Chimney Sweeps. These chimney sweeps have earned the
industry's most respected credential by passing an intensive
examination based on fire codes, clearances and standards for
the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems.
The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that
all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis.
Used with permission from the Chimney Safety Institute of
America (www.CSIA.org).
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