The best way to keep squirrels out of your chimney is to install a commercial, stainless steel chimney cap over the top of the chimney to prevent animal entry.

If a squirrel is already in your chimney, you need to remove it and cap the chimney to prevent further access.

To help the squirrel escape:

1. Tie a 3/4-inch or thicker rope around the top of your chimney.
2. Lower the other end into your chimney.
3. The squirrel should climb up the rope and escape within a few hours.

Setting a baited cage trap in the fireplace and then opening the damper, allowing the squirrel to come down and enter the trap, is also effective. This method should only be used if the fireplace is secured by tight-fitting glass doors or covered with plywood to prevent escape into the house.

Do not use fire or smoke to encourage the animal to leave.

Once you are certain that the squirrel has escaped, cap the chimney with a commercially made cap and take steps to prevent squirrels climbing the building.

Note: Never try to grab an adult squirrel with a gloved hand. They will bite through most leather gloves, causing injury.