From Staff Reports CUMBERLAND — A rash of home fires involving
chimney fires has been occurring during the first winter cold
snap of the season. State Fire Marshal William Barnard is
stressing the importance and value of having chimneys and flues
properly inspected. “The warmth of a fireplace or wood stove in
the home should be an enjoyable experience; however, all too
often the proper inspection process is overlooked, which can
lead to tragedy. Citizens should take the necessary steps to
ensure their safety by having chimneys properly inspected and
maintained to protect themselves from the dangers of a home
fire,” said Barnard. These basic guidelines can protect resident
from the effects of a chimney fire. •Ensure chimneys are
inspected and maintained annually or more frequently if used as
the primary heating source. •Never use a flammable liquid to
start a fire. Only use combustible materials like newspaper,
kindling or approved fire-starting products to safely create a
fire in a fireplace or wood stove. •U