Here are fireplace safety tips during metro Phoenix’s cool season

PHOENIX — With temperatures finally cooling, utilizing fireplace safety tips could be the difference between a disaster and a warm, cozy time for metro Phoenix residents.

Scottsdale Fire Capt. Dave Folio advised that those with a chimney clean and inspect it annually to check for damage, cracks and improper installation.

“It’s really important to remember that what happens, especially with these wood burning chimneys, is soot builds up so I know they recommend having them checked and cleaned once a year,” Folio told KTAR News 92.3 FM.

The warning comes after a Scottsdale home caught fire in the chimney on Sunday.

What are other fireplace safety tips?

Folio said using the correct wood in your fireplace will help avoid issues.

Dry, seasoned wood — especially that with a moisture content between 15% and 25% — is your best bet. Wet wood and treated materials from sappy pines and construction scraps shouldn’t be used because of the blue laminates.

“Burn the right type of wood,” Folio said. “Some people have this false sense that they can go up to the pines and burn the pine wood. That’s a really bad wood to burn in your fireplace because it builds up a lot of soot inside the chimneys and it’s just not good.”

Keeping your damper fully open before lighting a fire will make sure the air flow is correct as well.

Homeowners should also install carbon monoxide detectors and remove anything flammable that is near a fireplace.

KTAR News 92.3 FM’s Heidi Hommel contributed to this report.

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