What is the best way to put out a chimney fire?

Spray short bursts into the firebox so that you don't throw embers into the air. If you don't have a fire extinguisher on hand, use sand, salt (any salt will work, including standard table salt and rock salt), or baking soda, which will deprive the flames of oxygen.

Will a chimney fire burn itself out?

It is not safe to assume that a chimney fire will burn itself out. Though it is possible that it will eventually burn off and end, it is much better to call 9-1-1 if you have a chimney fire. A chimney fire can potentially spread to other parts of your home and risk the lives of the people inside.

Can you use salt to put out a chimney fire?

While salt can extinguish small fires, it should not be considered a fool-proof method to fight a chimney fire. Call the fire department as soon as you notice the chimney fire. While the salt may extinguish small chimney fires, the fire department may be needed to help with larger fires.

How do firefighters put out chimney fires?

Make sure the wood and hot ashes are no longer burning — you don't want the wood or house to catch on fire after you leave. Once the fire has been put out in the firebox (generally with a pressurized water extinguisher), close the draft to reduce the amount of air feeding the fire in the flue.

Will a hot fire burn off creosote?

Creosote is a contaminant that is naturally produced during the chemical reaction of combustion when burning a fire. It is an oily, tarry substance that is highly flammable. A spark from an ember is all it takes to set the chimney alight. Creosote will continue to accumulate with every fire unless it is removed.

You Need To Know How To Put Out Chimney Fires.

What do you do after a chimney fire?

The first thing you should do after a chimney fire is call a certified chimney sweep. A certified sweep is best equipped to evaluate the damage caused by a chimney fire as well as recommend the necessary repairs that may need to be made.

How do you know if your chimney is on fire?

Do creosote logs work?

Many homeowners wonder if the chimney sweep logs or creosote sweeping logs really work to clean out fireplace flues and get rid of creosote residue so that the fireplaces are safe to use. The short answer is no, they don't work. At least, not well enough to completely clean out the flue the way it should be cleaned.

How do chimney bombs work?

Chimney bombs work by being dropped directly down a chimney, where upon contact with the flue bottom and heat of the fire, they explode, thereby releasing the powder.

Does burning potato skins clean chimneys?

Burning the potato peels will not eliminate all soot or creosote buildup, but they will reduce it. A normal and regular chimney cleaning is still needed to keep the fireplace working properly and safely.

Does burning aluminum cans clean your chimney?

Burning aluminum cans does not get rid of the creosote, it merely turns it to flakes and powder. It remains necessary to physically clean the chimney with the correct chimney brushes.

What dissolves creosote?

Vinegar is a natural acid that will break down the creosote over time. All you have to do is pour vinegar onto the creosote and then wait for it to dissolve. If you want to take a more natural approach, try dissolving the creosote using salt water instead of vinegar or chemical cleaners.

What happens when a chimney catches fire?

If a chimney fire is fueled well enough, it can be very noticeable. Signs include: hearing a loud roaring noise by your chimney; ash and debris flying out of the top of your chimney; black smoke coming from your chimney, and popping and cracking noises coming from your chimney.

What temp does creosote ignite?

Creosote can ignite at temperatures as low as 451 degrees F (for context, a fire in your fireplace can burn in excess of 450 degrees F), and even just an 1/8” buildup of creosote is considered enough to cause a chimney fire.

Should you put fire out before bed?

This depends on how long you are going to stay in the room. If you are going to sit around the fire for hours and let it burn out, it will eventually. But, if you have somewhere to be, or want to go to bed, you need to put the fire out first.

How often should I burn a creosote log?

For the best results, you should use one log for every 60 fires. If you're not sure how frequently you use your chimney, keep track of every fire. You might hit 60 fires in two months, or it could take longer.

How do I prevent creosote buildup in my chimney?

How can I tell if my chimney needs cleaning?

How common are chimney fires?

There are over 25,000 reported chimney fires a year in the U.S. While some sound like a low-flying jet and include flames shooting out the top of the chimney, others are slow-burning and go undetected until a chimney inspection uncovers damage. Chimney fires are dangerous, but they are preventable.

What does black smoke coming out of chimney mean?

Smoke is unburned wood particles – if you can see smoke from a chimney, you need to improve your technique. If you see a lot of black smoke, it's a sign you're burning something toxic. a light colored smoke means your fire isn't burning efficiently and you need to adjust your air intake.

Can you have a chimney fire and not know it?

Over 20,000 chimney fires happen on average every year. Despite this, many homeowners don't even realize it until they have a chimney inspection. You may have had one in your home without realizing it.

How do you know if you have creosote build up?

Can a fireplace explode?

Though very rare, gas fireplaces are susceptible to explosions and sudden fires. If the pilot light isn't sitting properly when the gas begins to flow, gas may build up and explode. Regular checks of the pilot light are important to keep this from happening.