If you own a fireplace, it is important to think about getting your chimney cleaned. Learn about why you should get your chimney cleaned and answers to other common questions concerning chimneys.

Preventing Chimney Fires

As fires burn, smoke goes up the chimney. Some of that smoke condenses in creosote on the flue -- the inner surface of the chimney. Creosote, a hard tar-like substance, builds up over time. When a thick coat of creosote catches fire, you get a chimney fire -- a powerful and frightening inferno that can be as loud as a low flying jet.

Chimney fires are often so hot that nearby walls and rafters burst into flame. The fire spreads so fast that firefighters often arrive too late to save any of the home.

Not all chimney fires are loud roaring events, but quiet ones can be just as dangerous. The extremely high temperatures associated with chimney fires cause cracks to form in the flue and chimney. Carbon monoxide is generated anywhere fuel is burned, including your fireplace, woodstove or furnace. Normally, these deadly fumes vent safely up the chimney. But if the chimney starts to leak, the fumes may be drawn back into the home.

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is a sneaky poison. The odorless colorless gas can be lethal. The human body treats it as if it were oxygen. Quickly distributed throughout the body, the poison has the biggest effect on the brain. Children can sustain brain damage with low levels of exposure. Symptoms mimic the common cold, so most people are unaware they are being poisoned. More extensive exposure leads to vomiting, nausea and, eventually, death.

The good news is that your fireplace can continue to be a source of safe pleasure if you stick to a simple maintenance schedule. Have your chimney cleaned regularly and inspected by a chimney sweep trained in chimney inspection.