If You Suspect a Chimney Fire

Signs of a chimney fire:

  • A loud roaring sound (like a jet engine)
  • Sparks or flames shooting from chimney top
  • Extremely high stove temperatures
  • Vibrations or popping noises in the stovepipe

What to do IMMEDIATELY:

Step 1 — Close the air control completely.

  • This starves the fire of oxygen and slows the burn.

Step 2 — Keep the stove door CLOSED.

  • Do NOT open it — opening the door adds oxygen and makes the fire worse.

Step 3 — Evacuate everyone from the house.

  • Get people and pets outside right away.

Step 4 — Call 911.

  • Tell them you have a suspected chimney fire.

Step 5 — If safe, use a fire extinguisher ONLY on the firebox exterior.

  • Never spray an extinguisher directly into a hot stove — pressure can crack the glass.

Step 6 — Do NOT use the stove again

  • Schedule a professional inspection before your next fire.

If Smoke Starts Filling the Room

Possible causes: flue not open, poor draft, cold chimney, door opened too fast, or wind pressure.

Step 1 — Open the nearest window immediately.

  • This gives the stove fresh air and helps restore upward draft.

Step 2 — Check that the flue/damper is fully open.

  • Many smoke incidents are caused by a partially closed damper.

Step 3 — Close the stove door.

  • This prevents more smoke from escaping.

Step 4 — If the fire is weak, add kindling or increase air.

  • A stronger fire pulls smoke upward.

Step 5 — If smoke continues:

  • Extinguish the fire by letting it burn down safely.
  • Do not use water unless absolutely necessary.

If a Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarm Sounds

Signs of CO exposure: headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, fatigue.

Step 1 — Turn off the stove and close the air intake.

Step 2 — Evacuate everyone from the house immediately.

Step 3 — Call 911 and report a CO alarm.

Step 4 — Do NOT ventilate the house until emergency responders say it’s safe.

Step 5 — Schedule inspection before relighting the stove.

If the Stove Is Overheating (Over-Firing)

Signs:

  • Thermometer in the red zone
  • Stove glowing faint red
  • Loud roaring fire
  • Excessive heat on stovepipe

Step 1 — Close the air control all the way.

Step 2 — Do NOT open the stove door.

Step 3 — Move any combustibles away from the stove.

Step 4 — Monitor until temperatures return to safe range.

Step 5 — If temperature keeps rising → CALL 911.

If There’s a Small Fire Outside the Stove (e.g., sparks, ash)

Step 1 — Use an ABC fire extinguisher.

Step 2 — Never use water on a hot stovepipe.

Step 3 — Ensure all embers are fully out before relighting.