As a first-time homeowner, you might be eager to start using the wood-burning fireplace right away. But, you should call a chimney repair specialist first. They will inspect the channel and make sure it can vent smoke out of the house, so it doesn’t make your family sick. To prevent additional safety hazards, follow the advice below on chimney safety.

How to Address Chimney Safety Concerns  

1. Install Carbon Monoxide & Smoke Detectors at Home

The fire produced in a fireplace lets off carbon monoxide. The gas is colorless, tasteless, and odorless and breathing in large quantities are fatal. If there are obstructions in the chimney, the gas could change course and seep inside the house. Outfit your home with carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. If the alarms sound, you’ll know to evacuate the family and call a chimney repair specialist for help. 

2. Have the Chimney Routinely Cleaned

A chimney is a desirable home for birds, bats, squirrels, and other animals. They bring twigs and other debris into the channel to build shelters, which could easily catch on fire when you use the fireplace. To avoid dangerous situations like this, schedule routine chimney cleaning before you start using the fireplace in the colder months.  

3. Open the Damper & Flue Before Starting a Fire

If the damper and flue are closed when you start a fire, smoke can’t exit the chimney. Even when the fire dies down, it still produces a lot of smoke. To ensure the smoke doesn’t enter the house, keep the flue and damper open until the fire is completely out.

With over 35 years of experience servicing Dayton, OH, the Brookville-based technicians at Abbey Road Chimney Sweeps will make sure your chimney works correctly. The team provides gas fireplace and chimney repair, cleaning, and inspection services to keep customers safe, warm, and healthy. To schedule an appointment, call (937) 833-0505. Visit the chimney repair specialists online for more safety advice and become a Facebook fan to read why clients recommend working with the locally owned and family-operated company.