Two Residential Fires Represented By Two Red Lights On Fire Safety Wreath

December 29, 2017

Two structure fires that occurred on Wednesday represent the eighth and ninth red bulbs on the “Keep the Wreath Green” fire safety wreath.

The first  residential structure fire was reported about 5:20 p.m. in the 3000 block of Pelican Lane in the Scenic Ridge neighborhood. Crews arrived on scene to find a working fire with flames showing from the chimney and smoke from the roof of the two-story home. Escambia County Fire Rescue called the fire under control at 6 p.m., with the chimney and surrounding living areas sustaining moderate heat and smoke damage.

The occupants were displaced as the power was shut off to the house. No injuries were reported.

ECFR determined that the fire was caused by by a breach in the wall of the gas fireplace and the use of a false chimney. Smoke detectors were present but did not operate, as the majority of the fire was confined to the exterior of the house and extended up the wall into the attic area.

The second fire occurred at approximately 6:38 p.m. in the 100 block of Ariola Drive on Pensacola Beach. Crews arrived on scene to find smoke coming from the second and third stories of the three-story home. Escambia County Fire Rescue called the fire under control at 7:50 p.m. No one was injured in the fire, but the house sustained damage to the second and third story. ECFR determined that the fire was caused by the fireplace.

Here are a few quick tips on fireplace safety from the National Safety Council and the Chimney Safety Institute of America:

  • Each season, before using your wood burning or gas fireplace, have your chimney, flue and vents inspected and cleaned by a certified professional.
  • Know your chimney liner. Some chimney liners are not compatible with gas appliances because of the material from which they are made. It is important to make sure that the lining system you purchase – or even the one that may currently be in your chimney – is appropriate for use with gas appliances.
  • If using a wood burning fireplace, use dry, seasoned wood that’s cut into manageable pieces. If using synthetic logs, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Never break a synthetic log apart and only use one log at a time. Don’t ever burn garbage. Always use a fireplace screen or door.
  • Always extinguish fires before leaving the house or going to bed. Never leave a fire unattended.
  • Dispose of ashes in a tightly-sealed metal container (only after they have completely cooled).
  • Don’t forget that a carbon monoxide detector is important in any home, especially one with a wood burning or gas fireplace.
If your home doesn’t have a working smoke detector, please call Escambia County Fire Rescue at 850-595-HERO (4376) or 850-436-5200 for city of Pensacola residents.

Comments

2 Responses to “Two Residential Fires Represented By Two Red Lights On Fire Safety Wreath”

  1. David Huie Green on December 29th, 2017 9:41 pm

    CONSIDERING:
    “Do not burn pine or similar soft woods. ”

    Not disagreeing, but both my grandmothers used to reject that advice. As a result, every now and then the soot buildup would catch fire with a roar like a jet engine. The flame went way above the top of the chimney, filled with sparks. It was very pretty and amazing their houses never burned down — unlike many others.

    David for safer fireworks

  2. Bryan Caro on December 29th, 2017 7:12 pm

    Another tip for wood burning fire places; Do not burn pine or similar soft woods. Use hardwood, oak, hickory, pecan, etc. You can use fat lighter but sparingly. Have a great day!

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