Yellowknife (Feb 12/03) - A few knocks with a hammer could save you a bundle -- or even your life -- this week.

Deputy Fire Chief Clem St. Croix said the cold snap over the past month has left many chimneys in the area gummed up with ice.

The fire department is trying to get the word out that chimneys like this pose a big risk. - Darren Stewart/NNSL photo

"It's a particular problem just after a cold snap when we get a month of temperatures below minus 35 and into the minus 40s," he said.

A blocked furnace can lead to expensive damage to your house, the chief noted.

"Damage to your heating system is not a cheap thing to fix, and you need heat," he said.

Ice buildup can also block noxious gases from escaping creating a serious health concern.

"Luckily we haven't had any tragedies, but it is a serious concern," he said. "We're trying to be proactive to get the word out."

Furnaces working overtime to keep you warm will gather ice in the particularly chilly temperatures, said St. Croix. He said upgraded furnaces are also prone to ice buildup.

"The old setup may not be appropriate for the new furnace," he said.

"You should really replace the whole chimney system."

He said propane fuel is also prone to freezing and if you use it to heat your home it's one more reason you should pay particular attention to your chimney.

St. Croix recommended residents take the time to chisel the ice off their chimneys or have a local contractor come over to remove the ice.

He added that residents should have a carbon monoxide detector on the top floor of their house, outside their sleeping area.