Welcome to the Neighborhood!
We would like to be among the first to congratulate you on the purchase of your new home and welcome you into the neighborhood! I imagine this might be a hectic time, getting settled, however, we believe, this is an important part of your home that we service. Most people know very little about their chimney. Those who seem to be knowledgeable, i.e., gas and oil servicemen, that neighbor or relative that knows everything and has fixed it himself! C'mon, we all know someone like that!! These people, while only having the best of intentions, unfortunately, may only further confuse or inadvertently mislead you, the general public! What am I referring to?

PROPERLY AND SAFELY MAINTAINING YOUR CHIMNEY!

PRACTICING..."SAFE CHIMNEY!"

Did you know, the Chimney Safety Institute Of America, (CSIA), recommends all chimneys, (heating - oil/gas, fireplace, wood/coal stove), be cleaned and inspected yearly? The National Fire Protection Association, (NFPA), (they write the codes and standards for everything!), recommends every chimney be inspected at least once yearly and cleaned if necessary!

Do you know about chimney caps? Chimney caps generally, depending on the cap, serve three purposes. They act as a spark arrester, (they help knock down burning embers so they fall back down the chimney and not on the roof and start a fire). Secondly, they serve as a rain shield. Lastly, they keep animals out, (animal guard). Did you know spark arresters are supposed to be installed on all chimneys?...that’s the code! Are you aware that nearly 1/3 of all house fires are related to poorly maintained, damaged, or misused, (and I’m sure, poorly constructed too!), chimneys?!

Carbon Monoxide, we’re hearing so much about it now...people being overcome in their homes and or families dying in their sleep! GUESS WHAT? That’s being caused, predominantly, by deteriorated and or improperly sized chimney flues, newer/more efficient heating equipment, well insulated homes, and or any combination of the three! Do you have the appropriate number of smoke or carbon monoxide detectors in your home? What about fire extinguishers or fire escape ladders for second floor bedrooms? Do you know the best spots to install or place these devices? Better yet, have you developed a fire escape plan? If you have kids, I’m sure they are more aware of it than most of us are, especially come October, during Fire- Prevention Week in schools!

I wish to thank you in advance for your time, and hope we've enlightened you in some way! Once again, THANKS and good luck with your new home! Be Safe!

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