Chimney & Fireplace Safety Tips For The Holidays

The holidays are a wonderful time of year. As families decorate their homes with colorful twinkling lights, trim their Christmas trees, and bake gingerbread cookies and other treats, the holiday aroma and the crackling flames of a cozy fire create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Unfortunately, for too many Indiana families, a sudden, devastating chimney fire—often igniting in the middle of the night—can turn this festive season into a nightmare. Statistics show that the highest frequency of home fires occurs during the winter months. 

That’s why we want to share these vital chimney and fireplace safety tips to help you enjoy a safer, warmer, and more festive holiday season:

Schedule Chimney Inspection Before the Holidays

The most critical step for chimney & fireplace safety is to have a professional inspection before you ignite your gas or wood-burning fireplace. Yes – gas fireplaces need inspections too! A visual or ChimCam inspection of the chimney, vents, and attached appliances is essential to check for creosote buildup, flue obstructions, and other issues that could lead to a dangerous chimney fire or carbon monoxide exposure.

Hire a Professional Sweep

A clean chimney doesn’t catch fire. Creosote, a dark, oily, or tarry highly flammable byproduct of combustion, is the “grinch” of chimney safety. If creosote builds up to a 1/8” inch or more, it significantly increases the risk of a chimney fire. A professional chimney sweep has the tools and expertise to remove this buildup safely without damaging the masonry. They will also remove any living or deceased animals, nests, leaves, and other debris that have been accumulating in the chimney flue.

Reline Your Chimney

The chimney liner is a critical component that protects the masonry from the intense heat and corrosive byproducts of combustion. If your liner is cracking, or if you have an older or historic chimney without a liner, a spark or intense heat can transfer to nearby combustible materials in your home, igniting a fire. In addition, toxic gases can seep into living spaces. A professional inspection can determine whether relining or replacement is necessary for fire safety and code compliance.

Install Glass Fireplace Doors

Glass fireplace doors promote fireplace safety by keeping sparks, embers, and rolling logs safely contained within the firebox. They also help reduce the amount of warm indoor air from escaping up the chimney after the fire is out.

Create A Safety Zone Around the Fireplace

During the holidays, we tend to bring more flammable items into our homes. Establish a three-foot safety zone around your hearth, keeping combustible materials, such as Christmas stockings, garland, furniture, and rugs, at least three feet away from the fireplace at all times.

Trim Tree Limbs Away From the Chimney

Tree limbs are not only a fire hazard, but they could also act as a bridge to your chimney for curious critters. Branches should be trimmed at least ten feet away from the chimney. Also, keep your chimney cap and the surrounding area clear of debris.

Ensure Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors Are Working

A smoke and carbon monoxide detector can be a lifeline in the event of a chimney fire or a carbon monoxide leak. Install detectors on every level of your home and near sleeping areas. They are readily available at local retailers and fire departments.

Extinguish the Flames Completely Before Going to Bed (or Leaving the House)

Never leave a burning or smoldering fire unattended. Before you go to bed or leave your home for holiday shopping, ensure that the fire is completely out and no longer smoldering. This will help prevent any risk of reignition while you are sleeping or away from home.

Call Now to Schedule Your Holiday Chimney & Fireplace Inspection

Don’t let the creosote grinch ruin your holiday! Schedule your holiday chimney & fireplace inspection today! Our team of licensed technicians provides expert chimney cleaning and certified inspections to ensure your fireplace is ready to keep your home warm & cozy all season. We serve the greater Indianapolis area, including Speedway, Beech Grove, Brownsburg, and Shelbyville, Indiana. You can speak with a chimney professional by phone or through our contact form. Happy Holidays from all of us at Chimney Solutions Indiana!