You have routine maintenance done on many of the things you own so why should your chimney be any different?  You want your fireplace to be to be both visually appealing and safe for you and your family.  It is recommended that every year you have a chimney sweep and basic inspection.  It is best to look for anyone who is Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) certified, as there are certain guidelines you should follow.  If you need someone to come fill your chimney needs, call The Mad Hatter Chimney for a qualified technician to assist you.

When burning, creosote is a tar-like substance that can build up and become hazardous. Burning wet or green wood causes quicker buildup.

When burning, creosote is a tar-like substance that can build up and become hazardous. Burning wet or green wood causes quicker buildup.

Chimney sweeps are important because they remove any unnecessary blockages in the chimney, such as twigs and leaves or creosotes.  Many homeowners are unaware of what creosotes are and how dangers they can be to their family.  First, creosotes are particles that build up on the inside of your chimney that are released as your fire burns.  There is no way to assure their prevention, however you can minimize them.  Start by using treated wood if you have a wood-burning unit.

There are many negative impacts on a person’s health that are commonly exposed to creosotes.  They are more harmful for certain age groups or if a higher volume is consumed.  You can ingest them through food, which will cause a burning feeling in your mouth.  Minimal exposure can lead to skin irritation, chemical burns, mental disorientation and chemical burns.  Worse side effects can lead to organ problems, unconsciousness, and in rare cases cancer and death.

Children have an especially difficult time with creosotes.  If they get coal or tar on their hands or toys and then place them in their mouths they can ingest the chemicals.  After, they continue to wipe their face, which could lead to eye irritation as well.

Some people do not have a choice but to be around creosotes.  Some medical relief products contain creosotes, such as products for dandruff and psoriasis.  However, if you are around the chemicals in your daily life, such as your job make sure you are protecting yourself by wearing long clothing.  When washing, make sure these are separate from the rest of your laundry to keep them from spreading.