With more homeowners firing up their fireplaces as the weather gets colder, chimney experts are reminding people to have their chimneys inspected and swept.

“It’s kind of like changing the oil in your car." Gavin Duffy, of Chimney Corners Chimney Service says. "You have to do it once a year, some places even twice."

Duffy claims chimney fires are more prevalent this time of year, and having a professional check out your fireplace can help prevent disaster.

"Take a look up inside the damper and on the back of the fireplace," Duffy says. "If you see enough crust where it looks like a sheep ready to be shorn — usually an eighth of an inch or more of buildup — then it’s time to give us a call."

You can call Chimney Corners Chimney Service at 203-853-2003.