1590 E. Seltice Way Post Falls, ID 83854 208-777-8500 www.kootenaifire.com

Chimney Fire Safety Tips Statistics from the United States Consumer Product Safe ty Commission (USCPSC) indicate that an estimated 26,000 fires are caused annually due to fireplaces and chimneys. These result in property losses amounting to over $120 million and at least 10 deaths every year. Chimneys need periodic examination and thorough cleaning with a chimney brush to maintain efficiency and to reduce the chance of a chimney fire. Build-up of creosote and soot that accumulates on the chimney walls reduces the draft needed by the stove or fireplace which may cause smoke to come out the opening or door. Creosote is flammable and can easily fuel a chim- ney fire. Clean your chimney at least once per year. Chimneys need to be cleaned to remove creosote and soot deposits. This will prevent chimney fires and im- prove the draft as well. How often the chimney is cleaned depends on how frequently the wood burning appli- ance is used, how it is operated and the type of installation. Some authorities recommend cleaning the chim- ney after every third cord of wood is burned and most recommend at least once a year. Any time you observe excessive soot and creosote, the chimney should be cleaned.

You may have the chimney cleaned for you by professional chimney sweeps or you can clean it yourself. If you opt to clean your own chimney you may borrow chimney brushes and poles from Kootenai County Fire & Rescue at no charge. We ask that you leave a $20 deposit with us until the brush is returned.

Basic chimney cleaning instructions. According to Michigan State University, the only efficient and effective method of cleaning is to use a chimney brush, since the brush scrubs the entire surface uniformly. The University recommends the following method for cleaning your chimney: 1) Be sure that all doors and windows are shut to prevent any drafts. Remove damper, if possible. Seal the fireplace opening with a drop cloth and masking tape. 2) Wear slip resistant shoes and proper protective clothing, including a mask to cover your mouth and nose and safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes. 3) There are three basic techniques for cleaning a chimney: Attach a line to the top of the brush and a 15-20 pound weight to the bottom. Lower the brush into the chimney, allowing the weight to pull the brush down. Repeat several times. Attach a string to the top and bottom of a brush. Have one person at the top and one person at the bottom of the chimney, taking turns pulling the rope. Repeat several times. Attach rigid extensions (available from KCFR) to the top of the brush. Lower the brush into the chimney being careful not to disturb any loose brick mortar or any device in the chimney. Make several passes using a scrubbing motion to remove the build-up. 4) Once you have completed the scrubbing of the chimney, remove the seal from the fireplace and use a vacuum to remove the debris from the bottom of the hearth, smoke shelf and/or catch pit.