New Canaan has experienced two brush fires in the past week due to improper disposal of fireplace ashes. With all of Connecticut being under “Extreme Fire Risk,” it is important that we properly dispose of fireplace embers/ashes.
The following are some useful fireplace safety tips as we move into the fall and winter fireplace season:
- Ashes may contain hot embers for several days. If cleaning is required, always use a metal ash bucket with a tight sealing lid. These buckets are available at most hardware or home improvement stores. Place the bucket away from the house and other combustible material for several days before disposing.
- Always ensure the fireplace damper is fully open before lighting.
- You must wait for at least 24 hrs. to close the fireplace flue damper. The smoldering embers may produce carbon monoxide (CO).
- Never use combustible liquids to help start a fire.
- Only burn dry, seasoned hardwoods. Never burn trash or wrapping papers. This may overwhelm the flue causing the fire to spill out of the fireplace.
- Always use fireplace screens to stop flying embers.
- A quality spark arrestor cap at the top of the chimney is always a good idea; especially where a wood shingle roof is present. This will also prevent critters from building nests.
- Depending on the amount and type of use, chimneys should be cleaned and inspected by certified chimney cleaners at least every few years – more often if used extensively or if woodstoves are used. Older chimneys may require video inspection to check for cracked flue liners and loose mortar.
- If a fireplace has been idle for long periods, an inspection before use may be in order. Some animals will build nests in chimneys which can cause a blockage or catch fire.
- Ensure that smoke and CO detectors are present and properly operating.
For questions regarding fireplace safety please contact the New Canaan Fire Marshal’s Office at 203-594-3030.