Before you start a fire in your fireplace, it is recommended by the National Fireplace Protection Association, Chimney Safety Institute of America, Wood Heating Alliance and The National Chimney Sweep Guild to have your fireplace and chimney cleaned and inspected annually. Heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires! A thorough fireplace and chimney cleaning will remove flammable creosote and ash. I also include a complete safety inspection to ensure your fireplace and chimney are safe.

Be sure your damper operates properly and there are no cracks in your fireplace or chimney. This could be a fire hazard and should be repaired before use! And you must have a chimney cap to keep sparks in and rain & animals out! Finally be sure you have a good fireplace screen or glass door to keep the sparks in and make your fireplace look great!