Tuesday, September 24, 2024 – As the colder months approach, residents in the District of Sooke are preparing to cozy up to their fireplaces and wood stoves. While a warm fire adds comfort to winter, it’s important to ensure chimney safety to protect your home and family from potential fire hazards.
Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind:
- Annual Chimney Inspection & Cleaning: Over time, burning wood creates creosote, a highly flammable by-product, that can accumulate in your chimney. Schedule a professional chimney inspection and cleaning annually to prevent dangerous chimney fires.
- Burn Only Dry, Seasoned Wood: Wet or unseasoned wood produces more creosote and smoke. Use properly dried firewood to maintain a cleaner burn, reduce chimney buildup, and prevent the release of harmful chemicals from burning non-wood materials like trash or cardboard.
- Install a Chimney Cap: A chimney cap helps keep out debris, leaves, and animals that could block the chimney or create fire hazards. It also protects against rainwater, which can damage the chimney over time.
- Use Fireplace Screens: Install protective screens or glass doors to keep sparks and embers contained, reducing the risk of nearby combustible materials catching fire.
- Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are installed on every level of your home, including near bedrooms. Test these devices monthly and replace batteries regularly for optimal safety.
- Never Leave a Fire Unattended: Always extinguish the fire completely before going to bed or leaving your home. Even a small ember can start a fire if not fully extinguished.
In case of a chimney fire, evacuate your home immediately and call 911.
For further details on chimney safety, contact the District of Sooke Fire Prevention Services at 250-514-4473. Additional guidance on stove safety, including wood and pellet stove maintenance, can be found on the National Fire Protection Association’s website.
Contact Information:
District of Sooke Fire Prevention
Phone: 250-514-4473
Email: MCrawford@sooke.ca