There’s a simple rule about chimneys: if you have one then you need to have it inspected and cleaned before each heating season.

Most people don’t do that.

Chimneys need to be cleaned to reduce creosote — the residue left following combustion. Creosote can build up in stovepipes and chimneys and become a fire hazard. Even a small chimney fire can cause damage to the chimney structure. Larger ones can result in the destruction of a home and possible loss of life.

According to State Farm, the leading U.S. home insurer, creosote buildup varies with the type of fires you burn, heater design, draft and the type of chimney. A good rule of thumb is to clean a chimney whenever there is more than 1/8-inch to 1/4-inch of creosote. That might mean even more than once a year, depending on how much you use your chimney.

To reduce the amount of creosote build up, homeowners are encouraged to open the damper wide enough to allow smoke to move freely up the chimney, build smaller fires and to only burn dry, seasoned wood.

A stovepipe thermometer can help monitor flue temperatures for a wood stove.

The Chimney Safety Institute of America recommends that if you have a wood or coal stove, fireplace and chimney it should be inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep, as they are the most knowledgeable about chimney and venting systems. Even if you haven’t used your chimney, it should still be inspected for any damage or structural problems that may have occurred.

If you have just moved into your home you will want to have an inspection done as soon as possible to determine whether or not a chimney fire has occurred so that repairs can be made immediately.

Masonry chimneys often require more maintenance and repair than newer metal chimneys, but both require regular inspection.

Professional chimney sweeps use brushes to remove the creosote and soot. If there is creosote buildup that cannot be removed by brushing chemicals can be used to break down the hardened substance so that it can easily be removed. Although chemical chimney cleaning products are available on the market, they should not be used to replace professional cleaning by a certified chimney sweep.

Your fireplace or woodstove is a great source of heat and pleasure; with proper maintenance and attention you can rest assured that it is safe as well.