Winter Comfort Beyond the Fireplace: Creating a Cozy Home and Car Environment When the winter chill settles in, our instinct is to create warmth, comfort, and familiarity. We light the fireplace, pull out thick blankets, brew seasonal teas, and bring out scented candles to make our homes as cozy as possible. But while we go to great lengths to make our indoor environment warm and inviting, many forget about another place where we spend a lot of time: our car.…

Top 5 Best Chimney Starters Reviewed for BBQ Enthusiasts Lighting charcoal can be frustrating without the right gear. That’s where chimney starters come in. In this guide, we’ve compared the best chimney starters on the market to help you make a quick and smoke-free fire without relying on lighter fluid. Whether you’re a weekend griller or a serious BBQ pitmaster, these tools save time, reduce chemical taste, and give you consistent results every time. What to Consider When Buying the…

Best Chimney Services in 2025: Top Cleaning, Repair, and Installation Experts When it comes to keeping your home safe, cozy, and efficient, chimney maintenance is essential. A clean, well-functioning chimney protects against fires, improves air quality, and makes your heating system more efficient. But not every service is equal. So, what makes the best chimney services? Let’s dive into everything you need to know. Why Chimney Services Matter Neglecting chimney maintenance is dangerous. Over time, soot and creosote build up,…

The Best Things to Burn for a Cleaner, Safer Chimney Maintaining a clean chimney isn’t just a matter of efficiency — it’s about safety. Creosote buildup inside chimneys is the leading cause of chimney fires. Many homeowners wonder: Is there something you can burn to clean a chimney? Short answer: Yes, but it’s only part of the solution. Certain products and materials can help reduce creosote buildup, but none replace regular inspections and professional cleanings. Let’s dive deep into what…

Gas Fireplaces Explained: When You Need a Chimney (and When You Don’t) When people think of fireplaces, they usually picture cozy flames and a traditional brick chimney. But what about gas fireplaces? Do they still require chimneys, or has modern technology changed the game? Short answer: Not always. Whether a gas fireplace needs a chimney depends on the type of fireplace, the venting system, and local building codes. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know…

Understanding “Chimney” in 911 Dispatch: Fire Behavior and Risks When listening to emergency dispatchers or watching shows about firefighting or rescue operations, you might hear the term “chimney” used over the radio. It can sound odd if you’re not familiar with 911 or firefighting jargon. Why do they call it a chimney in 911? The short answer: “Chimney” refers to a vertical space through which heat, smoke, fire, or gas can travel rapidly — often uncontrollably — during a fire…

How to Safely Remove a Raccoon from Your Chimney (Step-by-Step Guide) Raccoons are intelligent, cunning animals that often seek shelter in warm, protected environments. Chimneys provide an ideal nesting place, especially for mother raccoons raising their young. If you hear chirping, banging, or scratching from your fireplace, you likely have an uninvited raccoon visitor. While they may look adorable, raccoons in chimneys can cause major structural damage and pose health risks. This guide will walk you through safe, compassionate, and…

Avoid Costly Surprises: Know If Your Insurance Covers Chimney Repairs While homeowners insurance provides financial protection against damage to your house and possessions, what about your chimney? Many homeowners assume their policy covers all structural components, but chimney repair coverage can be more complex. Understanding Does homeowners insurance cover chimney repair? what kinds of repairs are eligible, and how to file a claim can help you save time and money. When Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Chimney Repair? Typically, insurance policies…