Safety & Official Resources | Chimney Sweep Ratings

Use the right kind of authority

Our directory supplies comparison questions. The sources below supply government consumer guidance or industry education. None endorses this website or the companies in it. Links checked September 24, 2026; external content can change. For a property-specific requirement, ask the local building or fire authority and use the appliance manufacturer instructions.

Emergency action

If there is an active fire, a CO alarm or immediate danger, leave and contact emergency services from outside. Do not use an online checklist to decide whether to stay inside or relight an appliance.

Government: US Fire Administration

Heating fire prevention information helps homeowners plan maintenance and understand common heating hazards. Its consumer guidance recommends annual professional attention to heating equipment and chimneys.

Government: Consumer Product Safety Commission

The Carbon Monoxide Information Center explains CO hazards and alarm guidance. Carbon monoxide is odorless; smell cannot establish that the air is safe. CPSC advises getting outside and calling 911 for suspected CO poisoning.

Government: Federal Trade Commission

The FTC's home-improvement scam guidance helps with contractor research, written estimates and checking licensing and insurance. Confirm which local authority issues any credential relevant to the work at your property.

Industry: Chimney Safety Institute of America

CSIA is an industry education and certification organization, not a government agency. Its homeowner resources explain inspection and maintenance concepts. Credential information must be checked with the issuer for the specific person or company.

Government archive: EPA Burn Wise

EPA's archived wood-burning practices offer background on wood fuel and appliance operation. The program stopped updating in October 2025. Treat it as an archived reference and prioritize current appliance instructions and applicable requirements.