Over the past week or so - I've noticed a few chimneys starting up - which means Chimney fire season is once again upon us. Before you crank up that fireplace or stove for the winter - I'd encourge you to check the chimney. Make sure it is clean and clear - no birds nests have 'appeared' and that it does not need to be cleaned and that the spark aresting system is in good shape. Also - watch for chimney fires. If a chimney fire stats (it will sound like a roar in your chimney), do the following:
- Call 911 - and get us on the way.
- If you have one (and I recommend them), use a Chimfex chimney fire extinguisher.
- If you do not have a chimfex - a dry chemical extinguisher can help.
- Close the doors and air inlets to your stove/fireplace.
- Get out.
Chimfex Fire Extinguishters
For many years, RCVFD has recommended Chimfex fire extinguishers. They are effective relatively cheap and easy to use. We carry them on the trucks - but they really need to be in your house. A Chimfex looks like a road flare, but instead of putting out a flame for lighting, they put out a dense fire extinguishing smoke (don't inhale it!). I'm happy to report that Chimfex's are back - after being out of production for several years, they are being producted by the Rutland company. Rutland has produced a nice video on how to use the Chimfex here. According to the Rutland web page, Chimfex are avaliable at various Ace Hardware stores.
