Fireplace safety tips during the winter season
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — Even though the weather is not so good, we are in winter, which means you will be able to use your fireplace more next year. The Oklahoma City Fire Department has some helpful reminders for keeping your home safe.
On New Year’s Eve, the side of a home near Northwest 122nd and Council Road burst into flames after a fireplace fire spread into the attic.
“There was smoke and heavy flames in the attic of this home,” OKC Fire Chief Randy Cornelius said.
Fireplace caused fire in house on New Year’s Eve (KFOR)
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Residents were sleeping inside when it happened, meaning 2025 could end in disaster. But firefighters said a neighbor knocked on their door and they got out safely.
“The guys did a good job tearing it down and putting it in the attic,” Cornelius said.
Fire crews believe the fire in the chimney spread to the attic overnight.
“Many times we don’t burn dry season wood properly and this causes a lot of creosote to build up in your chimney and leads to some home fire problems,” said OKC Fire Capt. Scott Douglas.
The Oklahoma City Fire Department says annual chimney inspections and cleanings can save your home. They also recommend using a well-equipped display.
“This protective screen will prevent embers and sparks from entering your home,” Douglas said.
according to National Fire Protection AssociationBetween 2016 and 2020, nationwide heating equipment caused approximately 44,000 home fires annually.
Approximately $75,000 worth of damage was caused to the house that burned down on New Year’s Eve.
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