Valcourt Antoinette FP7 Installation And Operation Manual - page 19
19
CREOSOTE
When wood burns slowly, it produces tar and other organic vapors which combine with humidity to
produce creosote. Creosote vapor condenses in the chimney left relatively cool by the slow fire and coats the
inside of the flue with residue. When creosote ignites, it produces a red-hot, extremely dangerous fire.
It is therefore recommended to make small, brightly burning fires rather than lazy, smoldering fires. Not
only will it keep your glass doors and flue cleaner but, what is most important, it will lessen the likelihood of
chimney fires.
CHIMNEY FIRE SAFETY PROCEDURES
What to do if you suspect a chimney fire has started:
1. Close the fireplace door.
2. Alert everyone in the house.
3. Call the Fire Department if necessary.
4. Put out the fire in the fireplace with a dry-chemical extinguisher, baking soda, sand or ashes. (Never use
salt because it is corrosive, nor water because it could cause a steam explosion.)
5. Make sure the sparks coming from the chimney do not set fire to the roof.
6. Before re-using the fireplace, have it inspected by the Fire Department.