7-year study shows 3,200+ home fires per year originate from chimney fires
Chimney fires are a proven hazard. As the wood burns in the fireplace, unburned parts of this wood float up through the chimney and attach to the chimney’s walls. This creates a substance called creosote. Creosote burns at temperatures that are extremely hot. These temperatures inside the chimney can reach up to 2,000 degrees.
Clean your fireplace and chimney regularly – Creosote is a Killer
There are a number of conditions that contribute to the formation of creosote in your chimney. Some factors that can cause this formation are a restricted air supply, cool temperatures in the chimney and the use of unseasoned wood. Because creosote is highly flammable, if it continues to build up inside the chimney, and the temperature of the flue becomes high enough, a fire can be the result.
2005 – 2012, 22,700 Chimney Fires
According a report released by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (USCPSC) on residential fire loss estimates between 2005 and 2012, the average amount of fires caused by fireplaces, chimneys and chimney connectors was 22,700. The estimated property loss during the same period, was $111,700,000, and the average related deaths was 10.
Chimneys and fireplaces add beauty and architectural interest to your home; and who doesn’t love a roaring fire on a cold winter night. But, while you are enjoying your fireplace, keep in mind that if you do not maintain your chimney, disaster can strike.
Bottom Line – Keep you chimney clean
The bottom line is: if your chimney is not kept clean, the potential for a fire is great; but with proper maintenance and care, chimney fires are completely preventable. For help with preventing a chimney fire in your home, contact you local chimney professional.
Other Tips
Make sure to check your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors regularly. Also consider installing a monitored fire and security system by B&W Fire Security Systems – Central and Northern Arizona’s leading fire and security systems company.
Related Links:
http://www.csia.org/media/Statistics_Chimney_Fires_Carbon_Monoxide.aspx http://www.csia.org/homeowner-resources/the_facts_about_chimney_fires.aspx http://chimneysweepers.com/chimney-fires.html
– See more at: http://bwfiresecurity.com/chimney-fires/#sthash.dgLM1SqU.dpuf