Tips for fall fire safety

Now that the days and nights have become cooler, and with a lack of substantial rainfall, new fire hazards have arrived. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CDF) warns residents that ashes from fireplaces and wood-burning stoves can smolder for several days. Hidden hot embers can ignite brush. Proper disposal of ashes should be in metal fireproof containers, never plastic cans or trash bags that can easily melt.

Chimneys should be inspected and cleaned at least once a year. Creosote should be removed when it builds up one-eighth to one-quarter of an inch. Chimneys should be free from obstructions and have a one-half inch mesh screen on top. Always have a screen in front of a fireplace.

In order to keep a heater properly maintained, make sure the air filter is clean and be sure to remove dust from around the burner. In addition, check that the flame is burning blue in color. Poor heater maintenance is a killer. Be fire safe, not sorry!