Clarington Fire Chief reminds residents of the importance of fireplace and chimney maintenance

Clarington January 7, 2020/- Inspect your chimney every year. That’s the message from Clarington Fire Chief Gord Weir after crews responded to a chimney fire in north Clarington Monday afternoon.

“If you use a wood-burning appliance to heat your home, it’s important to make sure your chimney is clean and have it inspected every year,” said Clarington Fire Chief Gord Weir. “Over time, soot and other by-products of burning can build up in your chimney flue, so regular inspection and preventative care is key to keeping your family safe,” added Chief Weir.

Chimney fires can happen suddenly, and residents who use fireplaces or wood stoves to heat their home should be aware of the signs of a chimney fire. They include:

• Loud cracking or popping noise coming from the chimney flue
• Lots of dense smoke coming into the fireplace or out the top of the chimney
• Visible flames at the top of the chimney from debris that has caught on fire or flaming creosote
• A strong, intensely hot smell
• A loud roaring sound often described as that of a train or aircraft

Clarington Emergency and Fire Services responded to a chimney fire on Monday afternoon near Highway 35/115 and Concession Road 8 in Clarington.

Nine trucks and 26 firefighters responded to the fire call. The home sustained extensive fire, smoke and water damage. Fire Prevention Officers are investigating the cause of the fire.

One person was home at the time of the fire and escaped unharmed. No firefighters were injured.

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Media Contact:
Leanne Walker
Communications Specialist
905-623-3379 ext. 2217