How to Put Out a Chimney Fire
Chimneys can often become clogged leading to a fire. This type of fire can be disastrous if not extinguished quickly. Do not worry; if a fire forms in your chimney you can quickly put it out using a few basic materials that most people commonly have around their home.
- Dump a large amount of baking soda or sand onto the fire. Both of these agents have the ability to smother the fire if you catch it early.
- Use a household fire extinguisher to put the fire out. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for use on the side of the fire extinguisher for specific instructions on how to use your fire extinguisher.
- Cover your hand and arm with a towel, and then place a large metal object over the source of the fire. You can use the lid to a metal garbage can or a standard household cookie sheet.
- Close the fireplace doors to remove the fire's oxygen source. If your chimney is clogged, it will not be able to get oxygen from the other opening causing the fire to go out in the same way that a candle goes out when you put the lid on it.
- Evacuate your home if none of the home remedies for extinguishing your chimney fire have worked. Move your family and pets to safety right away.
- Call 911 and let them know that your chimney is on fire and that you fear it is going to spread to the rest of your home.
- Spray down the roof of your home around the area where your chimney is located. This can help prevent the fire from spreading to the roof until the firefighters are able to reach your home and extinguish the fire.