I always thought creosote was the main fire risk, but a study from the NFPA changed my mind

I was reading a report from the National Fire Protection Association, the 2022 version, and it said something that really got me. It said that over a third of home heating fires start because of things placed too close to the heater or the fireplace itself, not just from a dirty chimney. I've been sweeping for fifteen years and always focused on the flue lining and creosote buildup. I tell every customer about cleaning schedules. But this made me think I'm missing a big part of the safety talk. Now I make a point to walk around the hearth area and look for firewood stacks, furniture, or even holiday decorations that are within three feet of the opening. I had a job in Charlotte last fall where a family had a wicker basket right next to the fireplace opening, full of kindling. That's a direct hazard I would have missed before. Do you all include a quick 'clearance check' in your standard service call, or do you stick strictly to the flue?

3 comments

3 Comments

the_cora1mo ago

Forgot the flue and checked my own rug first.

wyattbennett1mo ago

My dog once ate the inspection checklist.

karen_sanchez101mo ago

My first year sweeping I was so focused on the chimney I almost missed a pile of newspapers tucked behind a chair leg. Talk about a wake-up call!