What are some ways to prevent a chimney fire?

In colder seasons, when you are more likely to build fires in your fireplace, there is a greater likelihood of a chimney fire. To avoid these fires in your home, you should be aware of precautions you can take.

• Burn only dry wood that produces less smoke than green wood
• Inspect your chimney each year for creosote buildup
• Build hotter—but smaller—fires, that will reduce smoke
• Avoid burning non-wood materials that can create sparks, that can start a chimney fire. These materials include paper, trash, cardboard, etc.
• Where wood stoves are used, install stovepipe thermometers.