Burn Seasoned Wood

• Burning the right wood will create the most heat while emitting less creosote. Creosote is a black substance resembling tar that builds up inside chimneys over time. Highly combustible, creosote will cause fires when it thickens. Seasoned wood causes less creosote than other types. Choose seasoned wood that was cut one year prior to burning, and has been in storage since cutting. The color of wood will tell you whether or not it is seasoned. Seasoned wood will appear dark or gray, while unseasoned wood appears green. Seasoned wood is dry, brittle and cracked. When burning, seasoned wood will heat a room while limiting the risk of your chimney catching fire.
  
  

Monitor its Condition

• Inspect a masonry chimney for any damage to the brick work. Look for loose, chipped or missing bricks. Inspect joints for any holes or damage. Also watch for cracks, gaps and fissures in both the brick work and joints. Binoculars will help you look for signs of damage at the chimney top. If your chimney is connected to the attic, be sure to check there too. Inspect a metal chimney for rust, bending, corrosion, loose panels, missing rivets and stains. During windy weather, check for any movement.
  
  Check for deformities, leaks and stains. Inspect your chimney's flue, paying close attention to any cracks or holes. Look at the connector pipes, smoke chamber and cleanout doors. Whatever your chimney is made of, any damage to its exterior will usually indicate damage to the interior as well. If you spot an irregularity, call a professional for advice on how to proceed.
  
  

Install a Chimney Cap

• A chimney cap prevents rain, snow, debris and animals from entering your chimney. Without a chimney cap, your chimney's interior is more susceptible to damage. When exposed to water, a chimney's lining weakens. Water can also flood the chimney's base, damaging structural elements. In addition, animals can invade your chimney, clogging it and possible bringing pests into your home. Chimney caps will prevent damage and unwanted visitors, while keeping sparks at bay. Stainless steel and copper caps are the most durable and will match a metal chimney. Masonry chimneys look best with brick, concrete or stone caps. In any case, purchase a chimney cap that provides a lifetime warranty.
  
  

Hire a Professional

• A professional examines a chimney for signs of damage, required maintenance and fire safety. When hiring a professional, ask for certification and training. Reputable companies will take the time an money to certify an employee while less respectable companies won't. Ask professionals what services they offer and how much these services will cost. Ask professionals for proof of insurance. Hiring an insured professional will erase questions of liability in case something goes wrong during inspection. Finally, ask for references. This will help you determine whether or not a professional is honest and capable.