National Fire Prevention Week

It’s National Fire Prevention Week, and this year, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the leading authority in establishing fire safety codes, has unveiled its “Charge Into Fire Safety” theme for 2025. This theme is a call to action, encouraging everyone to take proactive steps to prevent fires in their homes and communities. The week runs from October 5th through October 11th.

In partnership with the NFPA, Wells & Sons is helping to raise awareness among residents in Allentown, PA and beyond about the potential fire hazards linked to lithium-ion batteries. It is also the ideal time of year to emphasize the importance of maintaining chimney and fireplace safety.

Why Airlines No Longer Allow Lithium-ion Batteries In Checked Luggage

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has banned lithium-ion batteries from checked luggage on all flights due to the risk of fire. Under certain conditions, these batteries can overheat and ignite, a chemical reaction known as thermal runaway. This situation is particularly dangerous in the cargo hold, where temperatures can fluctuate, and fire and smoke could spread into the passenger cabin.

Common Causes of Chimney Fires in Pennsylvania

A chimney fire can be a terrifying event that poses a significant threat to your home and family. In Pennsylvania, a common cause is the accumulation of creosote—a highly flammable byproduct of burning wood—that builds up inside the chimney flue. As a fire burns in your fireplace, the smoke and gases rise and leave behind this tar-like residue on the interior masonry walls. Sparks, intense heat, and even a lightning strike can ignite this buildup, causing a fire to erupt inside your chimney.

Inspect your chimney regularly to look for:

Creosote accumulation
Missing chimney cap
Bird’s nests
Leaves and debris

It’s important to remember that a chimney fire can quickly spread beyond your own home. In densely populated areas with shared walls, like the duplexes, rowhomes, and townhomes common across our region, a fire can easily spread to neighboring residences, putting multiple families at risk.

How to Prevent Chimney Fires

The most effective way to prevent a chimney fire is to have your chimney professionally inspected and swept annually. A Certified Chimney Sweep has the tools and expertise to safely remove creosote buildup, identify any blockages, and check for hairline cracks or other damage that could compromise the safety of your chimney and venting system.

5 Tips to Improve Fireplace Safety This Winter

Install a Glass Fireplace Door

This simple, yet highly effective barrier is a first line of defense against sparks and embers that can escape the fireplace and land on nearby rugs, flooring, or furniture.

Burn Seasoned Wood

Use firewood that has been dried for at least six months. Seasoned wood burns more efficiently and produces less smoke, which in turn reduces the amount of creosote buildup. You will also be rewarded with a warmer, longer-lasting fire-burning experience.

Ensure Proper Ventilation

Before lighting a fire, ensure your fireplace damper is fully open. Proper airflow is essential and also helps prevent smoke from backing up into your home.

Create a Safety Zone

Maintain a three-foot safety zone around your fireplace. It means moving furniture, toys, and any other flammable materials a safe distance away from the hearth. Also, keep children and pets away from the fireplace, too!

Safe Ash Disposal

Never throw ashes in the trash, as they can combust. Instead, please place them in a metal container with a securely fastened lid and store it outside, away from any structures or flammable items, until it is completely cool.

Chimney Inspections for Fire Prevention in Southeast PA

Remember, a clean chimney is a safe chimney. At Wells & Sons, fire prevention is our top priority. Our Certified Chimney Sweep® professionals have the knowledge and expertise to inspect, clean, and repair chimneys across the Lehigh Valley and Southeastern Pennsylvania areas, including Gilbertsville, Pottsgrove, Reading, and Bethlehem.

Qualified & Dedicated