Expert: James Ball - 4/10/2009

Question
One day when using a store log wrapped in those packages, I lit one and about ten minutes later a huge flame shot up and I panicked. I threw a bucket of water on the fire to estinguish it. My concern is that I have a fireplace that burns logs or I could use the gas ignitor. I did NOT have the gas turned on, but this happened over a year ago and I am afraid to light a fire because I am concerned there may be damage to the gas pipes. What do you think ? Your answer will be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Hello Phil, I would have a local Certified Chimney Sweep (www.csia.org, there you can look up by zip code to find one near you) take a first hand look at what you have they should be able to help. It could have been the log or left over gas in the pipe, either way have it looked at and go slow when building your fire.
James