Deerskin Road Fire Highlights Need for Chimney Inspections
The Eagle River Fire Department (ERFD) responded to a structure fire at 3764 Deerskin Road last Saturday, June 14, in the town of Washington.
The fire, which began in the home’s chimney, spread into the eaves and rafters of the gable-style roof, but thanks to multiple department's swift and coordinated efforts, the fire was quickly controlled and the home was saved with minimal damage.
ERFD received mutual aid from the Three Lakes, Phelps, and Conover fire departments.
Upon arrival, crews quickly contained the blaze, ventilated the roof and chimney box, and ensured the fire did not extend further into the structure. Conover firefighters were seen assisting with ventilation, while the Phelps Fire Department established a water point at Boat Sport Marina on Highway 70 East. The Three Lakes Fire Department provided critical manpower and water shuttling support.
The fire started in a chimney system that uses a design found in many older Northwoods homes. These systems often include a prefabricated fireplace with a triple-wall stove pipe running along the outside of the house, enclosed within a wooden box. While this setup worked reliably for many years, fire officials have recently seen more cases where it fails and leads to structural fires.
The ERFD reported the homeowner didn’t have an overloaded fireplace or unsafe conditions. This appears to be a case of a design that gave out after years of use.
Residents should have their chimney systems regularly inspected, especially if their homes contain older prefabricated fireplaces with wood-framed chases, the ERFD urged. Even minor wear or hidden damage can allow heat to escape and ignite surrounding materials.
Thanks to quick response times, strong inter-agency coordination, and favorable conditions, what could have been a total loss was quickly contained and brought under control.
About the Author: Michael Anderson is the fire chief of the Eagle River Fire Department and a lifelong Eagle River resident. Born and raised in the community, he takes pride in serving the people and place he has always called home. A retired U.S. Army Major, Michael served 23 years in the Infantry, Logistics, Ordnance, and Civil Affairs, including multiple overseas deployments.