CHIMNEY FIRE

A Chimney Fire Incident is classified as a Structure Fire Incident, therefore the notes covering a Structure Fire Incident are appropriate. However, with the prolific use of wood fuelled heating and that chimney fires are a common occurance in our community, it is fitting that additional notes are included.

TURNING OUT NOTES

While it is true that a Chimney Fire is classified as a Structure Fire, it is at the OIC discression to call out the next nearest brigade. The OIC will base his decision on the incident report and if it clearly indicates or not that there is a threat of the fire spreading to the building.

• FIRE FIGHTING & SAFETY NOTES
• ALL CHIMNEY OR FLUE FIRES SHOULD BE TREATED AS POTENTIALLY SERIOUS!
• If the building is smoke-logged, ensure that a thorough search of the building is carried out as quickly as possible to ensure that no persons have been overcome by smoke.
• In heavily smoke-logged buildings, as soon as the source of the fire is located, VENTILATE.
• A chimney of solid construction (ie brick), often has a large hollow space from the ceiling down to the upper edge of the fireplace, on either side of the chimney. Mortar in old buildings tend to deteriorate and fire can escape into the ceiling space.
• As a general rule chimney fires should be extinguished and not allowed to burn out.
• NEVER USE ANY MORE WATER THAN NECESSARY. A chimney fire may be attacked with very basic equipment such as a bucket and cup or a knapsack.
• Attack the chimney fire from either the ...
• FIRE PLACE, when the fire is burning near it. Remove contents from the fireplace and apply a fine spray of water up the chimney.
• or the ROOF, when the fire is burning near the top or the full length of the chimney. If there is a damper, close it. Apply small amounts of water using a bucket or a garden hose adjusted to a fine spray. A heavy weight, attached to a rope may be lowered into the chimney and vigously moved up and down to dislodge the burning material.
• CAUTION should be taken when applying water to the fire as super heat steam will rise out of the chimney. Wear gloves and keep your face clear.
• Always be mindful of possible water damage to the premises. Where possible, salvage sheets should be placed over carpets etc.
• If there is a need to look up a chimney use a mirror, do not look up directly as falling debris could injure.
• When working on the roof, step carefully and on steep or slippery roofs a safety line should be attached to the firefighters.

Make a thorough inspection of the wall, floors and ceiling in the fires immediate area to ensure the fire is TOTALLY EXTINGUISHED before leaving the premises.

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