A chimney fire is just what it sounds like it is: a fire that starts in your chimney, and has the potential to spread to the rest of your home.
Some chimney fires burn slowly at high temperatures (slow-burning chimney fire). Though the homeowner may not know one of these fires has occurred, they can still cause structural damage over time. A free-burning chimney fire
is easy to spot: they sound like a freight train, and sometimes produce flames or billowing smoke that lap out your chimney top.
Regardless of what type of chimney fire you experience, step #1 should be to get yourself and your home's occupants out of harm's way. If it is safe to do so, close the damper, glass doors, fire grates, and any pipes that may be supplying air to the fire. If possible, and again, only if it's safe, turn on an outside hose and wet down your roof. If the fire has spread, call 9-1-1.
The better way to go? Prevent chimney fires with periodic cleanings by a professional chimney sweep service like Top Hat Chimney Sweep & Masonry. We'll inspect your chimney, then make sure it's free of creosote, dirt, and other build-up that can accumulate over time. We can also recommend taking steps such as relining your chimney in order to make it function more efficiently, and less likely to pose a safety hazard to you and your family. Call today in Thomasville, NC.