As winter sets in and the cold weather arrives, you may begin to think of enjoying your fireplace or wood stove. Before lighting those winter fires, be sure to consider the condition of your chimney. A dirty chimney can cause a chimney fire, which can damage structures, destroy homes and injure or kill people.

Chimney fires are avoidable. Below are some ways to prevent a chimney fire:

• Have your chimney inspected and cleaned annually.
• Use seasoned woods only (dryness is more important than hard wood versus soft wood considerations).
• Build smaller, hotter fires that burn more completely and produce less smoke.
• Never burn cardboard boxes, wrapping paper, trash or Christmas trees; these can spark a chimney fire.
• Install a stovepipe thermometer to help monitor flue temperatures; adjust burning practices as needed.
• Inspect and clean catalytic combustors on a regular basis (where applicable).
• If you have a chimney fire: Get everyone out of the house, including yourself and call 9-1-1

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