What to do if…
a chimney pot, cap, or top section looks shifted or loose after high winds

What to do now

1. Move away from the chimney.
   Keep people and pets conservatively away from any area that falling debris could reach. During a high wind warning or severe thunderstorm warning, move to an interior room or basement in a sturdy building, choosing a location away from the chimney where possible.

2. Block access from a safe position.
   Close doors, gates, or windows leading toward the area. Warn other occupants, visitors, and neighbors if a shared route may be affected. Do not enter the possible debris area to put up barriers.

3. Call 911 if there is immediate danger.
   Call if debris is actively falling, someone is in danger, a public or shared route cannot be kept clear, someone is trapped, or you have no safe exit during an immediate hazard. Describe the location and say there is a structural falling-debris hazard.

4. Arrange urgent make-safe help.

   • Homeowner: contact a qualified chimney professional or roofing contractor for an urgent safety inspection and stabilization advice. Check local contractor requirements when arranging repair work.
   • Renter: notify your landlord, property manager, or emergency maintenance contact that there is an urgent exterior safety hazard.
   • Condo or townhome resident: notify the property manager or association promptly if the exterior may be their responsibility.

5. Stop using the affected chimney.
   Do not use any connected fireplace, stove, or appliance until a qualified professional has checked it. Damage or blockage may affect safe venting.

6. Treat a carbon monoxide alarm or possible symptoms as an emergency.
   Carbon monoxide has no smell. If a carbon monoxide alarm sounds, or anyone has symptoms such as headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, or confusion, move to fresh air by a route that does not take you beneath the chimney if possible, then call 911. If the only exit is beneath falling debris, call 911 and follow the dispatcher’s instructions.

7. Document only from an already-safe location.
   After everyone is clear of the hazard, take photos only if you can do so without approaching the chimney or entering the possible debris area. Skip this step if there is no safe view.

8. Wait for safer conditions before checking outside again.
   During a high wind warning or severe thunderstorm warning, stay sheltered and monitor local weather updates. Do not go outside to reassess the chimney while strong winds continue.