Before you light that first fire

Staff writer Lisa Singleton-Rickman talked with one of the area's only chimney preparation experts, Neal Willis, a 28-year chimney sweeping veteran, about the importance of taking necessary precautions before building the first fire of the season.

Q: Does everyone with a fireplace need to have it inspected before using it?

A: Definitely. Open fireplaces should be cleaned out every two years and it's not a bad idea to have wood heaters checked yearly as they are especially prone to collecting dangerous creosote, a highly flammable substance formed when heat and smoke condense on the cold flue liner.

Q: Are people more aware of the need for the service now than in the past?

A: It used to be just a seasonal cleaning that people requested but now it's year-round as I put on chimney caps, check for damaged brick from water damage, etc.

Q: Are fireplaces becoming more popular now and are you seeing a shift from gas fireplaces?

A: About 10 years ago, many people went to gas logs but with gas prices so high, many people are going back to wood heaters and even open fireplaces because people can be sure of what a cord of wood costs.

Q: What are some of the greatest dangers of fireplaces?

A: The biggest chimney fire I've ever seen was caused by someone burning a Dominoes Pizza box. The grease created an explosion of sorts in the chimney. Also, anyone who has had a chimney fire certainly needs to have it cleaned very well and any repairs made before using it again, regardless of how it may appear.

Q: How can people safely check their chimneys between professional cleanings?

A: Professional help is the best option, but it's safe to shine a light up the chimney from the bottom and check. That's not to say that trouble will be obvious. I've pulled everything imaginable out of chimneys, from raccoons, owls and snakeskins to a Christmas tree on one occasion. One of the biggest myths is that people can shake the damper or beat on the walls of the chimney and knock all the unwanted creosote and other substances loose. While some of it will release, it's best to have it removed professionally.

Q: How does a homeowner chose a chimney cleaning service?

A: Check the phone book for professional quality and credentials. It's best to use an established business.