Don't light another fire until you have the chimeny inspected. Ask the chimeny person about how to safely operate it. Lots of people overlook having chimneys cleaned and inspected. If your new to the area there's a chance the prior owner never had it done simply from not using it. A chimney with heavy creosote or animal nests can cause a chimney fire which can easily get into your walls or attic. We get these calls often during winter. Please also put a CO alarm in or near where the fire is. A blocked or unopened flue causing smoke build up and a CO condition which can be deadly very quickly. Please get a CO detector if you plan to use the fireplace for fires!