Wood furnaces cause fires

[Lee Borgersen]

 Outdoor wood furnaces can be cause of wildfires

  ......
The Department of Natural Resources reminds homeowners to take precautions when using outdoor wood boilers this spring.

"There have been a number of fires started due to improper disposal of ashes, which cause wildfires when the wind reignites discarded ashes," said Linda Gormanson, DNR wildfire prevention supervisor.

Firefighters have responded to an unusually high number of fires started by these outdoor boilers. To prevent fires when cleaning the boiler, place the ashes in a metal container with a cover. Store the container of ashes on a cement slab or bare ground cleared of any dry leaves or grass. Make sure the ashes are completely extinguished when they are dumped on the ground. If necessary, drown and stir them with water and check that they are out cold.   

In addition to ash, embers are also a concern. Outdoor boilers don't have shields to prevent sparks from escaping.

 "When wood is added to the boiler, the initial blast of heat creates a shower of embers that is released through the chimney," Gormanson said. "When embers fall on dry grass, a wildfire can be the result."

Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for cleaning the chimney. This will prevent the buildup of creosote. Inspect the inside and outside of the chimney for holes and cracks, and repair any defects.

By taking precautions having outdoor furnaces inspected, homeowners can enjoy the comforts of a warm home and rest easier knowing their ashes will not cause a wildfire, which could impact themselves or their neighbor