State Fire Marshal urges fireplace safety as heating season nears

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding residents to take precautions when using fireplaces and other home heating sources as colder weather approaches.

Washington fire agencies reported six fatalities from home heating sources in 2025, according to the State Fire Marshal’s Office. Nationally, fires involving chimneys, flues or fuel burners accounted for 77% of residential building heating fires in 2024.

The office recommends having chimneys and fireplaces professionally inspected and cleaned each year. Residents should burn only dry, seasoned wood, use fireplace screens or glass doors to contain sparks and keep children and pets at least 3 feet from a lit fireplace.

Officials also advise allowing ashes to cool completely before placing them in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid. The container should be stored outdoors away from homes and combustible materials.

Homes should have working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, and residents should test them regularly, according to the office.