News Release from: Hillsboro Fire and Rescue
DON'T WAIT-GET YOUR CHIMNEY/FLUE CLEANED NOW!
Posted: September 24th, 2012 9:18 AM
Now is the time to get your chimney or flue cleaned because cooler temperatures are tempting homeowners to light fires in their wood stoves and fireplaces. Hillsboro Fire and Rescue responded to a chimney, believed to be the first of the season, Saturday morning shortly after the owner started a fire in a wood stove.
"Despite the owner claiming she had her chimney cleaned last year, we found two inches of creosote build-up in the chimney," said Lieutenant Brian Forehand. He and his crew responded to the home in the 3200 block of Southeast Spruce Street. Fortunately, there was no damage to the home.
"That's not always the case," said Public Information/Education Officer Storm Smith. "Chimney fires can crack the chimney mortar allowing fire to enter the attic, quickly spreading flames throughout your home. Flue fires can spew sparks and cinders onto roofs and into gutters." Smith said they often start from the buildup of creosote that burning wood produces. The substance collects and dries out over the summer making it a very flammable material. The first hot fire of the season in the fireplace or stove will ignite the build-up.
Hillsboro Fire and Rescue recommends annual cleaning of flues and chimneys for frequently used fireplaces and wood stoves. You can find local chimney sweeps on-line or in the phone directory.
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