Cold weather high gas prices make fireplaces more valuable

Higher fuel prices are making many people take a second look at their unused fireplace as a source of heat. A spokesman with the Department of Natural Resources Air Quality Bureau says you may want to upgrade the fireplace before starting that roaring fire. Brian Button says the fireplaces installed in the 1970s and 80s are not very efficient.Button says if you do use your fireplace, make sure you have good wood.He says your fire also needs enough air to burn properly.Button says you should also be sure your chimney is properly cleaned before using the fireplace.