This time of year, fires are at their highest occurrence. The recent fire in Stamford brings to mind how important it is to follow fire safety procedures in order to save lives.
Seymour has also had incidents where ashes from fireplaces were improperly disposed of and wood burning stoves resulted in woods fires and building fires. When the Office conducts wood and pellet stove inspections in single family homes, it is disturbing to me how often older homes either have no smoke alarms or not enough.
During these inspections, there is a high frequency of inadequate clearances from combustibles such as walls, wood trim and mantel around the fireplace opening and inadequate floor protection under, in front of and around the stove.
A recent building fire in town occurred when the chimney fell away from the house and created an opening above the fireplace. The heat from the fire caused the wall to catch fire.
The following fire safety tips must be followed:
- Ensure there are working smoke alarms throughout the house, in and outside of bedrooms and on all levels.
- Create and practice a fire escape plan for all family members.
- Properly dispose of ashes in a metal container with a tight fitting lid and place it outside far away from the house. Ensure that all ashes are cold and have been doused with water before dumping them.
- Always ensure that the manufacturer’s installation and clearance requirements are followed when installing a wood or pellet burning stove.
- Before using a chimney, inspect it for damage and tilting. Also look into the flue. If you observe any damage, missing mortar or anything that does not look right, do not use the chimney and contact a professional and licensed contractor.
- Install and following manufacturee’s installation requirements regarding carbon monoxide detectors.
(The author is Paul Wetowitz, Seymour’s Fire Marshal)