The following information is from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
SOURCE: Home Heating Patterns and Trends: Chimneys Supporting Solid-Fueled Equipment Causes and Safety Tips, November 2004, www.nfpa.org (the latest NFPA statistics to be updated by September 2009)
Indoor Fireplaces (Solid-Fueled)
In 2001, an estimated 2,900 reported home structure fires involving solid-fueled indoor fireplaces resulted in 10 civilian deaths, 40 civilian injuries, and $55 million in direct property damage.
The leading cause of fireplace fires is “failure to clean,” which probably refers to deposits of unburned fuel, called creosote.
SAFETY TIPS:
Home Heating Fire Patterns, 11/04 137 NFPA Fire Analysis & Research Division,
Quincy, MA
NFPA 211, Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents, and Solid Fuel Burning Appliances,
requires annual inspection of chimneys and
cleaning as often as the inspections indicate. Regular inspection and appropriate cleaning are
essential to reduce the risk of fire with solid-fueled heating equipment.
After any chimney fire, even a minor
fire not reported to the fire department, have a professional inspect the chimney, and
repair or replace it as necessary.
Install a carbon monoxide alarm to
detect dangerous build-ups of unvented carbon monoxide from fueled heaters or other sources.