Making sure your fireplace chimney has a functioning cap and screen to keep out the critters is very important.  An inspection of your chimney is inexpensive and could save you multiple headaches.  Bats, birds, squirrels and raccoons have all made their way down unsecured chimneys and into homes.  What a mess they can make as they try and chew their way out, or you find them hiding when you least expect it… Ounce of prevention = a pound of cure! (Mom always said, and you know mom was always right!)