Outdoor chimney fire prompts fire safety reminder

CLEVELAND - White County firefighters were dispatched to a residential fire on Georgia Highway 255 South around 10:45 Thursday night.<br /> <br /> White County Fire Department spokeswoman Ana Newberry said when fire units arrived they discovered the fire was in an outdoor fireplace by a pool.<br /> <br /> Newberry said White County Fire Chief Norman Alexander advised that apparently there was a creosote build-up in the chimney that resulted in an intense fire. The fireplace received heavy damage as a result of the excessive heat. No injuries were reported. <br /> <br /> Newberry said the fire is a reminder to homeowners that now is a good time to have home chimneys professionally inspected - "especially for a creosote build-up."<br /> <br /> According to Newberry, a professional inspection can result in the discovery of creosote build-up; cracks or damage due to the age of the chimney; and/or design problems.<br /> <br /> Newberry said homeowners should check out the National Fire Protection Association website for additional information about winter fire safety (see link below).<br /> <br />

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