How to Put Out a Chimney Fire

A chimney fire is a frightening occurrence and can be potentially dangerous to your property and your family. Knowing what steps to take in the event of a chimney fire is important but surprisingly, few of us are ever prepared for it or know what to do if the worst happens and the chimney catches alight. Anyone using an open source of heat in their home should learn how to extinguish a chimney fire.

Step One - Safety First

As soon as you are aware that the chimney is on fire, evacuate all family members and pets from the building. Before attempting to put out the chimney fire, evaluate the situation to ensure it is safe for you to tackle the fire yourself. Make sure you put heat-proof gloves on before tackling the chimney fire.

Step Two - Putting Out The Fire In The Grate

Tip a generous amount of sand or baking soda onto the fire. This practice helps to starve the fire of oxygen. Keeping a bucket of sand by your fireplace is a great practical idea that might just save your home!

Step Three - Use The Fire Extinguisher

To be on the safe side, use the fire extinguisher as well. Direct the nozzle towards the grate and spray in short bursts to make sure that any glowing embers that didn't get extinguished by the sand are completely out. Don't stand too close when using the fire extinguisher as the pressure from the nozzle can throw glowing embers into the air.

Step Four - Cover The Fire

Cover the extinguished coals and logs with a metal sheet. Anything will be suitable but something like an old oven tray or the lid from a trash can is ideal. Be very careful because even though the fire may be out, the surrounding areas of the fireplace may still be hot.

Step Five - Close Fire Doors

If your open fire is a wood burner or the type with glass or iron doors, close them once you have extinguished the fire. This helps to deprive the fire of oxygen. Fire needs oxygen to breathe so by removing it, you will lessen the chances of any embers taking light again.

Step Six - Hose The Chimney Stack

When you are satisfied that the fire in the grate is no longer alight, go outside and hose-down the chimney. Do this from a standing position. If you have a power attachment on your hose, use it as you will find it much easier to direct the water towards where you need it. Never attempt to climb onto the roof.

Step Seven - Call The Emergency Services

Don't take any chances with chimney fires. Always call the emergency services immediately. Even if you think you have dealt with the problem, you should still make that call. The professionals always prefer people to ask for assistance. It is better to be safe than sorry.