Having been a fireman for well over 17 years, I dont always agree with the ol timer fire chief's. The amount of wax and wood chips or whatever you use is too small of a quantity to cause you too much trouble. Granted, you have to keep your chimney's clean, but the start wont cause that much of a buildup on shortterm use. Almost all of the residue will burn up within a short period of time.... I do agree tho, use common sense... and you should be ok... and fortunately, my aim aint what it used to be..... so the messenger is safe