Chimney fires are a common cause of house fires in the United States, with more than 25,000 reported annually. These fires can cause more than $125 million in property damage and can lead to deaths and injuries.
What causes chimney fires? The most common causes are creosote, flue blockage, animal nests and other debris. All these causes can be detected and eliminated by having your chimney and fireplace inspected and cleaned annually.
According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America, “chimney fires can burn explosively – noisy and dramatic enough to be detected by neighbors.”
The Institute notes on its website that your chimney adds architectural interest to your home but its real function – and that of the flue that lines it – “is to carry dangerous flue gases from your fireplace, wood stove or furnace safely out of your home.”
And, the Institute states, “Clean chimneys don’t catch fire.” They recommend calling a certified chimney sweep to inspect your chimney and flue annually and sweep and repair it whenever needed.
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