SLOANSVILLE, N.Y. – Rural Grove Fire Department responded to a chimney fire on Corbin Hill Road Saturday, putting a renewed focus on safety precautions for those planning on utilizing fireplaces this winter.
The residents of the home were not present at the time, but noticed the flames while in a nearby barn. It took firefighters less than an hour to extinguish the fire that has spread to the upstairs attic. Though damages were contained to that portion of the home, this does serve as a reminder to residents that professional chimney cleaning is advised.
Troy Fire Chief Tom Garrett says hiring a professional is essential "at the beginning of every season no matter what, even in the city, but that's especially true if you're living out in the country."
Garrett says most people are qualified to properly clean off the -up of creosote, a byproduct of burning wood, that lines the chimney and catches fire. For those hesitant to spend the money hiring someone rather than tackling the job themselves, Garrett warns: "You can pay now, or you can pay later. You can almost count on a chimney fire."
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