Fire Safety - Chimney Fire Prevention

Chimney fires are one of the leading causes of residential fires in Washington State, especially during the winter months. Most are caused by creosote, a flammable by-product of burning wood that builds up inside chimneys. Over time, creosote can block the flue and ignite, leading to a dangerous fire.

When creosote buildup in the flue reaches a certain point, it can ignite from the heat of the fire in your fireplace or wood stove. Once creosote ignites, it burns at extremely high temperatures and can cause the chimney to ignite. The heat generated by a chimney fire can reach 2,000°F, which is much hotter than the normal temperatures seen in your fireplace or stove.

Your chimney’s job is to safely vent smoke and gases from your fireplace, wood stove, or furnace, keeping your home’s air safe to breathe. Unlike other household vents, chimneys require regular maintenance.

Clean chimneys don’t catch fire. Make sure you have your solid fuel venting system checked annually (preferably before cold weather sets in) and clean or repair it whenever needed. Scheduling a fall cleaning will also clear out anything that might have fallen into the chimney during the summer.

Chimney fires can burn explosively and noisily with flames and dense smoke present. Slow-burning chimney fires don’t get enough air or have fuel to be dramatic or visible, and they often go undetected until a later chimney inspection, but the temperatures they reach are very high and can cause as much damage to the chimney structure – and nearby combustible parts of the house.

Chimney Fire Warning Signs

• Puffy or honeycombed creosote with rainbow-colored streaks.

• Warped damper or metal connector pipe.

• Cracked or missing flue tiles.

• Discolored or distorted rain cap.

• Pieces of creosote on the roof or ground.

• Cracks in exterior masonry.

• Smoke escaping through mortar joints.

• Evidence of smoke escaping through mortar joints of masonry or tile liners.

Active Chimney Fire signs – Call 911 immediately

• Loud cracking or popping noises.

• Heavy, dense smoke.

• An intense, hot smell.

Additional Safety Precautions

• Never leave your fireplace unattended.

• Avoid using flammable liquids to start or accelerate a fire.

• Keep the area around your fireplace or stove clear of decorations and flammable materials.

• Install carbon monoxide detectors for year-round protection.

• Use a fireplace screen or glass door to prevent sparks and embers from escaping.

• Always make sure your fire is completely out before leaving home or going to bed.

• Keep fireplace tools, matches, and lighters out of children’s reach.

• Only burn seasoned wood and fire starters made for fireplaces or stoves—never paper or trash.

Thinking about cleaning your chimney yourself?

While it’s always a good idea to have your chimney inspected by a professional each year, you can tackle basic cleaning on your own with the right tools and a little preparation. Here’s what you’ll need:

Supplies Checklist:

• Ladder: For safely accessing the roof.

• Drop cloths or old sheets: To cover the fireplace opening and protect nearby rugs or furniture.

• Duct tape: To securely attach the drop cloth over the fireplace opening.

• Vacuum cleaner: A standard vacuum with a crevice attachment works, though a specialized ash or chimney vacuum is ideal if you plan to clean regularly.

• Chimney rod and brushes: Available at most hardware stores or chimney supply shops.

• Stiff-bristled brush: Choose one with a long handle to reach the damper easily.