Chimney safety important as weather turns cold

The Chimney Safety Institute of America, a nonprofit, educational organization dedicated to chimney and venting system safety, has issued a reminder that saving money in the short term by delaying routine maintenance may mean additional expense in the long run.

Preventative maintenance is one way to keep down the cost of keeping homes safe and warm this season. The Chimney Safety Institute of America and the National Fire Protection Association both recommend that homeowners call a qualified professional for an annual chimney inspection. Among other things, the inspection will make sure the chimney is clear and clean and that there isn’t a buildup of creosote that could cause a fire. Inspectors can also make sure there are not any holes that can let fire or hot gas ignite surrounding wooden structures.

Additional winter heating safety tips include testing firewood’s moisture content. Well-seasoned firewood, with an average moisture content of 20-25 percent, is easier to start, produces more heat and burns cleaner. An inexpensive hand-held moisture meter, available at home improvement stores or local specialty hearth retailers, will allow wood testing. People can also simply bang two pieces together. When two pieces of seasoned wood are banged together, they make a “clunk” sound. When two pieces of green wood are banged together, they make a “thud” sound.

Experts also recommend installing carbon monoxide and smoke detectors on every level of a home and in sleeping areas. Place detectors in hallways or other large areas of the home where they can measure overall general atmosphere and alert you in the case of an emergency.