More Chimney Fires

We seem to be setting a record for chimney fires this winter season as four more have occurred within the past few days. Ladder 1 certainly proved beneficial at once instance as the roof was covered in frost and would have been a tricky exercise working off ground ladders. Smoke was also observed coming from between the stainless steel liner and the original masonary chimney indicating that there may be a hole or crack in the liner. The owners were advised to have it inspected before reuse. In the latest instance, a fireplace insert was removed and evidence of burning was observed behind the steel surround plate. It also appeared that the damper had been broken. Again the owner was advised to have the chimney inspected before starting another fire. So for all of you with a woodstove, it might be a good idea to have yours cleaned before the fire department is called to your house.