Berwyn & Radnor Firefighters Respond to Chimney Fire |
By WatchDesk | |
December 13, 2021 | |
BERWYN, PA - The Berwyn Fire Company, along with a ladder truck from the Radnor Fire Company, was dispatched at 5:55 p.m. to the 900 block of N. Valley Forge Rd. in Tredyffrin Township for a chimney fire. Berwyn Engine 2-3 arrived on scene with a smoke condition inside the residence, along with a smoldering fire in the chimney stack. A fire extinguisher was used to control the fire and fans were placed to remove the smoke. The crew of Radnor Quint 15 placed their ladder to the top of the chimney to inspect for any issues on the roof from embers that had fallen onto it. Additional fire/EMS units from Berwyn staged along N. Valley Forge Rd. during the incident. All personnel and apparatus cleared the scene by 7 p.m. As the weather gets colder, the Berwyn Fire Company would like to relay chimney fire safety information from our colleagues at the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). A chimney fire in action can be impressive. It has been described variously as creating a loud cracking and popping noise, dense smoke, and an intense smell. Chimney fires can burn explosively – noisy and dramatic enough to be detected by neighbors or people passing by. Flames or dense smoke may shoot from the top of the chimney. Homeowners report being startled by a low rumbling sound that reminds them of a freight train or a low flying airplane. However, those are only the chimney fires you know about. Slow-burning chimney fires don't get enough air or have fuel to be dramatic or visible. But, the temperatures they reach are very high and can cause as much damage to the chimney structure – and nearby combustible parts of the house. With proper chimney system care, chimney fires are entirely preventable. Common Repairs: The purpose of your chimney is two-fold. It must remove harmful byproducts created when fuel is burned, and it must carry excessive heat away from combustible items near the fire. Besides being cleaned and inspected each year, your chimney will also need occasional repairs to ensure that it is performing these functions properly. Repair work can be done by masons or fireplace professionals. • Firebox repointing and rebuilding—the firebox is the brick area where you build your fire; loose bricks and degraded mortar should be repaired. Other Safety Tips: • Do not bank fires or close dampers to prolong burning. |
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