With each daylight-savings clock-change we are supposed to test our smoke detectors. Fire prevention agencies and programs use daylight-savings as an associated reminder which increases the chances homeowners will remember to test their alarms. This test helps promote fire safety, ensuring our detectors work. Similarly, yearly chimney inspections and maintenance should be implemented on homes with one or more working fireplaces. However, more often than not, homeowners forget or overlook the importance of having the chimney inspected. The most probable reason for this is that not enough people are aware of the dangers ill-maintained fireplaces present, with the largest danger being a blockage, either partial or complete.

Causes – What causes a chimney to get blocked?

A blockage is most likely to occur due to:
• Soot or ashes that have accumulated over years or because a chimney is often used.
• Leaves or other nature-related debris which finds its way inside and builds up.
• An animal(s) that have found their way inside and/or have made your chimney, their home.

Effects – What effects can a blockage have?

There will undoubtedly be improper ventilation, which is extremely dangerous and depending on how severe the blockage is, can cause:
• Smoke back-up into your house/home
• Dangerously high CO2 levels
• Embers to fly around, resulting in a possible house fire

With effects such as those listed above, a blockage can create a tremendous danger, which if not taken care of, could ultimately result in a house fire, medical issues, and even worse, death.

Suggestions/Preventative measures – What can you do to prevent a blockage?

1. Get your chimney inspected every year – you can use the commencement of fall (or the first frost) or the end of winter (the first warm day) to help remind you.
2. Have your chimney cleaned each year or as deemed necessary by a chimney inspector.
3. Have a chimney cap installed to prevent outside elements from getting in.
4. Install a CO2 detector on the same level as your fireplace.
5. Research other ways to help maintain your fireplace (such as using special logs that help diminish soot residue).

Note: Suggestion numbers 1-4 require the use of or hiring a chimney maintenance company, such as Allied Roofing and Chimney. For more information about the company, go to: alliedchimneyny.com