Chimney Fires Are More Common Than You Think—Here’s How to Prevent One

That cozy fire might come with a hidden danger

A roaring fire in the living room? Pure comfort. But behind the scenes, your chimney could be collecting a dangerous buildup that turns cozy into catastrophic. Chimney fires are one of those things most homeowners don’t think about—until they’re staring at smoke where it doesn’t belong. The scary truth is, chimney fires are far more common than people realize, and many are completely preventable with just a little regular maintenance.

Whether you light up your fireplace every night in winter or only on special occasions, knowing what causes chimney fires—and how to prevent them—is key to keeping your home safe.

The real culprit: creosote buildup

Every time you burn wood, your chimney collects a byproduct called creosote. This sticky, flammable gunk coats the inside of your flue and, if left unchecked, can catch fire under high temperatures. All it takes is one particularly hot burn or a strong draft to ignite it.

There are different types of creosote—some dry and flaky, some sticky like tar, and others hardened and glossy (the most dangerous). The thicker the buildup, the greater the fire risk.

Regular chimney sweeping removes creosote before it gets to that point. If you can’t remember the last time you had your chimney cleaned… well, that’s your sign.

Warning signs your chimney needs attention

Most chimney fires don’t start with a dramatic whoosh and a burst of flames. Many are slow burns that go unnoticed but still cause structural damage and increase your risk for a more serious fire later.

Here are some red flags to look for:

• A strong, smoky odor coming from the fireplace—even when it’s not in use

• Black, tar-like residue on the walls of the firebox

• Difficulty starting or maintaining a fire

• Excessive smoke indoors or poor airflow

If anything seems off, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Prevention is easier (and cheaper) than cleanup

A chimney fire doesn’t just ruin your fireplace—it can damage your roof, attic, or even cause a full-blown house fire. The good news is, preventing one is simple:

• Schedule an annual chimney inspection to catch problems early

• Get regular chimney cleanings to remove creosote, debris, or nests

• Only burn seasoned, dry wood to reduce soot and smoke

• Avoid burning paper, trash, or pine branches, which can accelerate buildup

• Install a chimney cap to keep out moisture, leaves, and curious critters

By staying on top of these tasks, you’re protecting your home, your family, and your peace of mind.

At American One Chimney Sweeps, we’ve seen the damage a chimney fire can cause—and we’d much rather help you prevent one. Schedule a professional Chimney & Fireplace Inspection to get ahead of any hidden dangers. Our expert team also handles thorough Chimney & Fireplace Cleaning, timely Chimney & Fireplace Repair, and safe, code-compliant Chimney Relining. Ready to play it safe? Contact us today and keep your fireplace worry-free all season long.