HAGERSTOWN, MD - A chimney fire broke out at 11518 French Lane in Hagerstown, around 10:15 Sunday morning.
Fire officials say flames started inside the chimney then spread to the second floor and attic. Officials say the cause of the fire was the family burning a fire in an un-clean chimney with years of thick tar residue and build-up.
The family was waiting outside when firefighters arrived and no one was injured. The damage is estimated to be up to $5,000.
"You also need to burn dry wood. If you're not burning dry wood then that creates what is called "creosote," which builds up on your sides; it's just like closing in a hole to where it gets closed, and that's what happened here," says Brian Lowman, Deputy Chief with Williamsport Fire and EMS.
Fire officials say if your home has a chimney, it's crucial to clean it at least twice a year, especially just before the winter season when you're likely to use it most.
Fire officials say flames started inside the chimney then spread to the second floor and attic. Officials say the cause of the fire was the family burning a fire in an un-clean chimney with years of thick tar residue and build-up.
The family was waiting outside when firefighters arrived and no one was injured. The damage is estimated to be up to $5,000.
"You also need to burn dry wood. If you're not burning dry wood then that creates what is called "creosote," which builds up on your sides; it's just like closing in a hole to where it gets closed, and that's what happened here," says Brian Lowman, Deputy Chief with Williamsport Fire and EMS.
Fire officials say if your home has a chimney, it's crucial to clean it at least twice a year, especially just before the winter season when you're likely to use it most.
