PSA 10/9/2025 1:00 p.m.: Now Is the Season to Clean Your Chimney and Here's Why

As temperatures drop and fireplaces start getting used again, the Las Vegas Fire Department wants to make sure you are aware of the dangers and why cleaning your chimney before use is critical. Most chimney fires are caused by creosote buildup. Creosote is a byproduct of burning wood, especially when the fire does not burn completely. It starts as a gas, then cools and sticks to the inside walls of your chimney. Over time, it hardens into a thick, tar-like substance.

The amount of creosote that builds up depends on several factors, including the type of wood you burn, the temperature of the fire, and how well air flows through your chimney. This buildup is dangerous for two main reasons. First, it can clog the chimney, increasing the risk of smoke or carbon monoxide entering your home. Second, it is highly flammable and can ignite from a single spark, potentially causing a fast-moving and dangerous chimney fire.

The photos below show a chimney flue before cleaning and the amount of creosote that was removed. Even after cleaning, creosote begins building up again the next time you use your fireplace, which is why yearly maintenance is so important. 

In particularly cold winters, fireplaces tend to be used more frequently and for longer periods of time. This leads to greater creosote buildup than usual. If possible, it is recommended to have your chimney flue cleaned during the season as well, especially if you notice heavy use.

As colder weather sets in, the Las Vegas Fire Department urges all residents to have their chimneys professionally cleaned and inspected before winter begins and again mid-season if needed. Keep warm and stay safe throughout the fall and winter.

10.9 LVFD-Chimney Fire Safety.pdf

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