With the return of cooler mornings across the region, many residents may be preparing to light their fireplaces or woodstoves for the first time this season. Cherokee Village Fire Chief Kal Deinst is urging homeowners to take safety precautions by inspecting and cleaning their chimneys before doing so.
Deinst advised that chimney maintenance is a critical step in preventing house fires, particularly as temperatures fall into the 40s and families seek to stay warm. He recommended hiring a reputable professional chimney cleaner to ensure the job is done thoroughly and safely.
"Choose someone who has established a solid reputation in the community and can provide references," added Deinst.
Homeowners are encouraged to address chimney cleaning as early in the season as possible, reducing the risk of creosote buildup and other hazards that could lead to chimney or house fires.
For those unsure about where to start, local directories or recommendations from neighbors and local fire departments can help in locating trusted professionals in chimney maintenance.