Chimney Fire Sunday in Manassas; Tips for Prevention

MANASSAS, VA — Here's what Prince William County Fire and Rescue Chief Kevin McGee wants you to know about a relatively small house fire early Sunday afternoon in the 7200 block of Ridgeway Drive.

The fire, deemed accidental, started inside the home's chimney.

Two adult occupants fled the home when the smoke alarm went off, the fire was quickly extinguished and damage is estimated at $20,000.

At the time of year when folks begin using their fireplaces, often for the first time in months, McGee has some safety tips:

• Each year, prior to using your fireplace or wood stove, have your chimney and vents inspected and cleaned by a qualified professional.

• Have a sturdy fireplace screen or keep the doors on the wood stove closed to stop sparks from flying into the room.
• Burn only dry, seasoned wood in fireplaces and wood stoves and dry, seasoned wood pellets in pellet stoves.

• NEVER start the fire with a flammable liquid, kerosene or gasoline; use newspaper or kindling.

• Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away.
• NEVER leave a fireplace or wood stove fire unattended, particularly when children are present.

• Allow ashes to cool for several days before disposing (up to 4 days).
• Dispose of ashes in a tightly covered metal container.
• Douse and saturate the ashes with water.
• Place the ash container a safe distance from your home (at least 10 feet).
• DO NOT store in your home, garage or other nearby buildings.

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