The incident occurred on September 23. Firefighters from Gromadka:

at 11:17 a.m., a dispatch was received for a chimney fire in our locality.

The hazard was eliminated; fortunately, no one was hurt.

The following took part in the operation:

  • OSP KSRG Gromadka GBA,
  • OSP KSRG Różyniec GCBA,
  • JRG Bolesławiec ladder truck.

Soot fires in chimneys pose a serious fire hazard in homes heated with solid fuels such as wood or coal. They occur when soot—flammable deposits made of unburned fuel particles—accumulates in the chimney. Soot can ignite as a result of very high temperatures or sparking, and fire in a chimney spreads quickly, sometimes even throughout the entire building.

Several important facts:

  • Warning signs: dense black smoke from the chimney, unusual crackling sounds or sparks.

  • Causes: wet wood, infrequent chimney cleaning, improper fuel combustion.

  • Consequences: chimney fire, structural damage, smoke poisoning or fire throughout the house.

  • Prevention: regular chimney cleaning and inspections, using dry wood, checking the chimney draft, and using suitable fuels.

Soot fires can be very violent, so when they occur, do not attempt to extinguish the fire in the chimney with water, as the sudden steam may cause an explosion—it is best to call the fire brigade immediately.