Spark Arrestors

[Tin-knocker]

Hey guys I have a question about spark arrestors on chimneys.
So it’s been getting cold at our place and I’ve been wanting to get a fire going. But problem is it’s been really dry in my area (north of Santa Cruz in CA) and fires have been a real hazard. We just had one pretty close to us and it has me nervous.
The question I have is do spark arrestors really work? How many fires get started from sparks getting through an approved spark arrestor? Are my worries justified or should I just make a fire and get the family warm and not worry about it?
I will be burning bay, fir, some tan oak, alder and big leaf maple that has been sitting for about 2 years so it should be plenty dry. I do have a spark arrestor on my pipe but I could check into a better one if it would be worth the money. Also it is really dry around my house. I’d say really flammable grass would be about 20-30 feet from my place.
Thanks in advance!

 

[Justin Taylor]

I don’t know much about this type of stuff but it couldn’t hurt right? Mabby have to clean it more?

 

[grizz55chev]

Hey guys I have a question about spark arrestors on chimneys.
So it’s been getting cold at our place and I’ve been wanting to get a fire going. But problem is it’s been really dry in my area (north of Santa Cruz in CA) and fires have been a real hazard. We just had one pretty close to us and it has me nervous.
The question I have is do spark arrestors really work? How many fires get started from sparks getting through an approved spark arrestor? Are my worries justified or should I just make a fire and get the family warm and not worry about it?
I will be burning bay, fir, some tan oak, alder and big leaf maple that has been sitting for about 2 years so it should be plenty dry. I do have a spark arrestor on my pipe but I could check into a better one if it would be worth the money. Also it is really dry around my house. I’d say really flammable grass would be about 20-30 feet from my place.
Thanks in advance!

Might be a good idea to ask your local fire department about your situation.

 

[Ted Jenkins]

Spark arrestors are required in California and yes they work well. If a ember escapes the screen it will burn out quickly after. At least a hundred feet around your home needs to be clear of fuel. Thanks

 

[Philbert]

The question I have is do spark arrestors really work? How many fires get started from sparks getting through an approved spark arrestor?

Yes they work.

Several documented fires have been attributed to saws running without one. Cutting firewood that you dragged to a clear space (e.g. driveway, bare soil, etc.) would probably be OK, but sparks from your chimney might be another cause for concern in that environment. +1 on checking with the local fire department.

Those fires appear very intense from the news coverage.

Philbert

 

[Tin-knocker]

Thanks for the replies guys
I will call the fire department. That’s a great idea