Telephone solicitors telling Sharon residents to get "required" chimney cleaning and inspections are blowing smoke, Sharon Fire Chief James Wright said today.

The measures are recommended -- but not required -- by National Fire Protection Association guidelines, Wright said.

The fire department has received reports of companies calling residents offering these services are presenting them as requirements, he said.

"Residents should use good judgment when hiring a company to do work in their home as there are many scams out there," Wright said.

"It is highly recommended to do reference checks and to check with the Better Business Bureau before you hire any company to see if there are any complaints on file.

"The other factor to consider is that if you have your heating system cleaned annually, which is highly recommended, then a good portion of the work proposed by these companies has already been accomplished."

Meanwhile, state law requires carbon monoxide detectors in any home with "fossil fuel (propane, natural gas, oil, or wood) appliances or heating systems or an attached garage," Wright said.

Residents with questions should contact the fire department.