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Those fires that attract a homeowner or neighbors attention can be noisy with flames or dense smoke shooting from the top of the chimney. Prior to visual evidence of a chimney fire, many people report hearing a low rumbling sound that reminds them of a train or air plane. It is these fires that require an emergency call and can seriously threaten both property and life. In addition to putting the homeowners in danger, chimney fires most often happen during inclimate weather as homeowners seek both the practical and esthetic pleasures of a fireplace – this leads to firefighters responding under more difficult circumstances.
Residents who regularly operate a fireplace or wood burning stove can take some precautions to prevent chimney fires by having the fireplace cleaned and/or inspected for creoste buildup. This is the resin type substance that develops through condensation of the various particulars emanating out of the chimney. Burning unseasoned wood can increase the buildup up of creoste because of the additional water in the wood and additional heat needed to burn it off. Using seasoned woods, dryness being the critical component, can significantly reduce the buildup of creoste.
Homeowners should especially resist any temptation to burn their Christmas tree in the fire place as they are well known for helping to ignite a chimney fire with their sparks. Building smaller, hotter fires that produce less smoke can also help in reducing the buildup of creoste.
Residents are reminded that many local fire departments, including Wyckoff, Oakland, and Franklin Lakes, are fully volunteer.