SRV Fire: Play it Safe with Chimney Care

Cold weather means the need for warmth. And while residents want to turn up the heat in their homes by using their fireplaces, they don't want to increase their risk of danger.
 
Over the past three years, the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District has seen a sharp increase in the number of homes damaged or destroyed by fires caused by fireplaces, chimneys and home heating units. These types of fires have caused millions of dollars in damage and affected many families in the community.

That's why the local firefighters are reminding residents of steps they can take to reduce their risk of experiencing a chimney or home heating fire.

• Schedule an annual inspection of your fireplace and chimney with a licensed contractor.
• This simple and short appointment can prevent a devastating chimney fire.
• Ensure your chimney is equipped with an approved spark arrestor.
• Never burn trash, paper or holiday wrap in your fireplace. Burning embers can float up a chimney and onto a roof or into a yard.
• Discard ashes into a closed metal container, fill with water and store outside away from the home.
• Take a look at your furnace and ask yourself if it is in need of a check up? Contact a home heating specialist to insure your home is safe and warm this season.
• If you choose to use a portable heater in your home make sure to keep it three feet from items that can catch on fire and ensure your heater has the automatic turn off function if it should tip over.

For more tips on making this winter safe along with a list of licensed chimney contractors visit www.firedepartment.org.