Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
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Jed Boal ReportingMany people will head outside to rake leaves this weekend. Fire officials advise, it's a good time to do fall fire prevention inside, too.
A fire in Salt Lake City several weeks ago took off when a chimney fire spread to the attic. It was a seasonal wake-up call.
South Salt Lake Fire Chief Steve Foote helps us spot the most common fire hazards around the home.
In 2002, home heating equipment started nearly 50-thousand fires that killed more than 200 people. Those fires also caused nearly a half-billion dollars in damage.
A chimney or fireplace was the source of nearly half of those fires.
Steve Foote/South Salt Lake City Fire Chief: "The more creosote that builds up in the chimney, the more likely you'll have a fire in that chimney."
Have the chimney cleaned once a year, especially if you use your fireplace often.
Steve Foote/South Salt Lake City Fire Chief: "That fire builds up in the chimney and will go through the walls. They're difficult fires to fight because you're chasing them."
As for the furnace room, which is usually where you'll find the water heater, too, it's past time to clear out the clutter.
Steve Foote/South Salt Lake City Fire Chief: "There's a spark issue. they can come out and get a fire going. Keep it what it's intended for, to house your HVAC equipment."
Flammables obviously don't belong. As for paints, boxes, rags, everything else-- clear it away. Propane, white gas and paint thinners need to be stored in an area far away.
Steve Foote/South Salt Lake City Fire Chief: "Don't let the clutter continue to build up. You have th potential to lose everything. The loss of life or injury is the worst that can happen."
Portable and fixed space heaters cause a disproportionate share of home heating fire deaths, so be especially cautious with them.
Test you smoke alarms monthly, and install a carbon monoxide alarm in a central location outside each sleeping area.
For more information on fire safety for your home, see the links in the box above.
