Sechelt fire chief Bill Higgs is urging people to have their chimneys cleaned at least once a year after a chimney fire in Wilson Creek caused extensive damage to a home last week.
"People should have their chimneys cleaned at least annually, more if they regularly use their fireplace," said Higgs.
The fire on Stalashen Drive in Wilson Creek started at around 7:50 a.m. on Friday, April 30, and the fire quickly spread to the roof, then to the rest of the structure, said Higgs.
Sechelt Fire Department got the call at 7:52 a.m. and were on scene within six minutes. However, one firefighter was working just down the street and immediately came to the home with a large fire extinguisher, trying to keep the blaze from spreading.
"Neighbours were also helping with garden hoses, and we ended up calling Roberts Creek Fire Department for help as well," Higgs said. "They came right away, which is a good example of the kind of cooperation we have between fire departments here on the Coast."
Firefighters did what they could to protect valuables inside the home, while the first truck on scene launched a defensive attack. An aggressive interior attack was then initiated.
Higgs wants people to know chimney fires can be easily avoided if the chimney is cleaned regularly and properly.
"People should look for someone who is [Wood Energy Technology Transfer] WETT certified when choosing a chimney sweep," said Higgs.
He also noted WETT-certified chimney sweeps are able to inspect chimneys and wood stoves to make sure they meet current codes.
"If they don't meet those codes and there's a fire, there can be trouble with collecting insurance," said Higgs.
He encourages people to have an inspection done as a preventative measure.
"WETT-certified chimney sweeps can do an inspection and provide a report you can give your insurance company before anything happens, or you can fix problems before they potentially cause a fire," said Higgs.
