Superior Twp. champions for fire safety

By Christine Laughren
Nov. 8, 2008    ·    3:26 p.m.

The Superior Township Board is sending out a “news you can use” brochure to members of the community in an effort to educate residents on fireplace safety and an amendment to its burning ordinance.

The Fireplace safety brochures have been created in the wake of several local fires in the past year. Township Supervisor William McFarlane said the brochures are expected to cost the Township $1,200.

“This may be considered high unless it can saves one person or one home,” McFarlane said.

McFarlane reported that the latest chimney fire came from Oakbrook Subdivision. He said the flue was not properly venting, causing it to overheat and catch fire.

“In the past year we have also had fires originating from the fireplace bases where mortar dried up and embers fell into the cracks causing fires,” the supervisor said.

Along with the ten fireplace safety tips on the brochure, planned to be sent out later this month, is information regarding the adoption of an ordinance to prohibit outdoor burning in residential areas with a density of four or more houses per acre. The ordinance applies to all subdivisions and condominium projects in the Township but not to outdoor fireplaces.

Township trustee Brenda McKinney said she was glad to see the ordinance come to the table.

“Stop the burning,” McKinney said during the board’s discussion.