How to avoid a heat-related house fire

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Story Published: Jan 22, 2008 at 7:59 PM PDT

By Molly Blancett

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EUGENE - Pellet stoves are a great way to heat your home. But, they need their space.

"You have to give them room, or you're going to have a problem," said Weber Furnace & Air Duct Cleaning Owner Don Weber.

Every stove needs room in front, on the sides and above the heat source. Chimney fires are also common in winter.

Neighbors are often the very first ones to spot flue fires. Smoke coming anywhere but the very top of the chimney and visible flames are both signs something may be very wrong.

"They're dangerous because a lot of times, especially with flue fires that involve the chimney, is the homeowner doesn't know something is wrong until it's too late," said Eugene Fire Department Captain Craig Shelby.

Here's what happens. Creosote builds up and when the chimney heats up so does that residue.

"The chimney is only designed to hold a certain amount of heat from smoke," said Shelby. "So, when it gets direct fire on it, it can damage it."

Fire officials say there are three easy steps to prevent fires in your home. First, keep your house tidy.

"Keep combustibles away from heaters and wood stoves," said Shelby.

Second is maintenance.

"Keep the wood stove maintained professionally," said Shelby. "Hire someone to do it professionally."

And finally, use the right burning fuel.

"If it's good dry wood you're going to have less accumulation than you wood if it's a burning green wood or wet wood," said Weber.

Less accumulation means less chance for a flue fire and more time enjoying the warmth of a nice fire on a cold winter day.

Oregon State law requires a permit to install any fuel-burning appliance.

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