Each year many Fayette County residents use their fireplaces early in the fall or winter with little knowledge of the danger that could lay ahead.

A chimney that is not properly cleaned and maintained causes dozens of structure fires and thousands of dollars of damage each year, according to a statement by the Fayette County Department of Fire and Emergency Services, who adds that these statistics can be reduced by properly caring for one's chimney.

In an effort to reduce chimney fire the FCDFES offers these chimney safety tips:

” Have your chimney checked and cleaned every year by a professional.

” To help reduce creosote buildup in your wood-burning chimney system, burn only well-seasoned hardwood.

” Be sure that your chimney has a high-quality, long-lasting chimney cap to keep out debris and prevent birds and animals from nesting in the chimney.

” Always check your chimney after a violent storm. A chimney can be damaged by lightning, wind, or falling debris associated with these acts of nature.

” Install a carbon monoxide detector to warn of harmful gases that may enter your home because of a blocked or damaged chimney.

” Have your chimney flashing inspected and maintained.

” Have your chimney waterproofed to prevent long-term corrosion and masonry damage.

” Always properly dispose of fireplace ashes. Ashes can remain hot enough to cause a fire several days after you think the fire has gone out.

” Prior to starting a fire in the fireplace, be sure the flue to the chimney is open. The department responds to dozens of calls because the flue was not open prior to use.

In 1998, there were 39,200 residential fires in the United States originating in chimneys and fireplaces. These fires resulted in 290 personal injuries, 90 deaths and over $206 million in property damage. Almost all of these were preventable through regular maintenance and safety.