Bulletin Board

Here you will find the latest news and information of the

Ruidoso Fire Department as well as upcoming events.

Fireplace Safety

There's nothing quite as cozy as a warm, crackling fire in the fireplace. But if you don't take some simple safety precautions, that fire could turn deadly.

More than 6,000 people end up in emergency rooms for injuries associated with fireplaces and fireplace equipment... and most of the injuries occured with children under five years old.

Keep your family safe and warm by following these fireplace safety tips:

 

• Have chimneys inspected annually, and cleaned as necessary, by a Certified Chimney Sweep. This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys. A certified sweep can also perform maintenance on your wood stove or help remove gas logs from a fireplace.
• Keep the top of chimneys clear of tree limbs or debris.
• Always open the damper before lighting the fire and keep it open until the ashes are cool. This will avert the build-up of poisonous gases, such as carbon monoxide.
• Never use gasoline, charcoal lighter or other fuel to light or relight a fire.
• Do not overload the fireplace. Large fires can lead to overheating of wall or roof materials, particularly if the fireplace is constructed of metal.
• Always use a screen around the fireplace to keep sparks from flying out.
• Warn children about the danger of fire. Do not let them play with fire.
• Do not dispose of ashes in dumpsters until they are completely cool.