Your fireplace needs a checkup before it needs a fire. The first flame of the season is not the time to discover a blocked flue or a creosote buildup.

I skipped the check one year and got a room full of smoke and a chimney that needed professional cleaning anyway. Now I do a quick inspection every fall before the first fire.

Check the flue is open

Before anything else, look up the chimney. Open the damper and check that the flue is clear. Birds and squirrels love chimneys, and a nest can block the whole thing. If you see a nest or debris, remove it before lighting anything.

Look for creosote

Creosote is the dark, crusty buildup that collects inside the chimney from burning wood. A thin layer is normal, but a thick layer is a fire hazard. If you can scrape off more than a quarter inch, call a professional chimney sweep.

Sweep the firebox

Remove the old ash and debris from last season. Scoop out the ash into a metal bucket and dispose of it safely. Ash can stay hot for days, so never put it in a paper bag or plastic trash can.

Clean the glass door

A dirty glass door blocks the view of the fire. Wipe it with a damp cloth and ash, which sounds backwards but works great. The ash acts as a mild abrasive and lifts the soot. Rinse with clean water and dry.

Check the cap and spark arrestor

The cap on top of the chimney keeps rain, leaves, and animals out. Make sure it is secure and the mesh is not rusted or clogged. If you cannot see it from the ground, ask someone to look from the roof or call a sweep.

When to call a professional

If you burn wood regularly, get the chimney swept once a year. If it has been years, start with a professional inspection. A hundred dollar sweep beats a chimney fire.

My first fire of the season is now preceded by a twenty minute check. Clean flue, clear firebox, sparkling glass. The smoke stays outside where it belongs.