Tulsa Fire Captain Warns Of Chimney Fire Dangers

A Tulsa fire captain cautions residents to use care after a chimney fire Sunday morning.

Crews were called to the 5800 block of North Joplin at about 10:30 a.m. Captain Lyle Payne said debris in the chimney caught fire, forcing a mother and her kids to flee the house.

Crews were able to put out the fire, taking the grate and logs outside to douse them with water. No one was injured.

It's a not uncommon occurrence for this time of year. If chimneys aren't maintained or creosote builds up, the inside of the chimney can ignite.

Payne had advice for those planning to keep warm by fireplace.

"If you're going to use a fire in this cold weather, just be very careful and don't leave a fire unattended," he said.

He also warned against letting the fire get too large.

If you haven't had your chimney cleaned in a while or are uncertain of its integrity, be sure to get it checked by an expert.