In

an effort to reduce chimney fire the FCDFES

offers these chimney safety tips:

� Have your chimney checked

and cleaned every year by a professional.

� To help reduce creosote

buildup in your wood-burning chimney system, burn

only well-seasoned hardwood.

� Be sure that your chimney

has a high-quality, long-lasting chimney cap to

keep out debris and prevent birds and animals

from nesting in the chimney.

� Always check your chimney

after a violent storm. A chimney can be damaged

with these acts of nature.

� Install a carbon monoxide

detector to warn of harmful gases that may enter

your home because of a blocked or damaged

chimney.

� Have your chimney flashing

inspected and maintained.

� Have your chimney

waterproofed to prevent long-term corrosion and

masonry damage.

� Always properly dispose of

fireplace ashes. Ashes can remain hot enough to

cause a fire several days after you think the

fire has gone out.

� Prior to starting a fire in

the fireplace, be sure the flue to the chimney is

open. The department responds to dozens of calls

because the flue was not open prior to use.

In

1998, there were 39,200 residential fires in the

United States originating in chimneys and

fireplaces. These fires resulted in 290 personal

injuries, 90 deaths and over $206 million in

property damage. Almost all of these were

preventable through regular maintenance and

safety.

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