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A spark arrestor is a simple metal mesh device that prevents flammable particles from escaping from a combustion source and causing a fire. You typically find these attached to gas or diesel engines on things like cars, generators, and garden tools (lawnmowers, chainsaws, etc.). Fireplace or wood-burning stove chimneys also have spark arrestors attached to or sitting under the chimney cap to capture burning embers.

Chimney caps are necessary both from a building safety standpoint in most municipalities and to keep your home protected from a variety of issues. Chimney caps are not only mandated by building code in most areas, but they also serve to keep squirrels, raccoons, and other pests out of your home, as well as snow and rain. Therefore, they help to avoid property damage, making them a worthwhile investment.

It’s technically possible in some areas to install your own fire suppression system, but it’s usually not a good idea. Your system must conform to the fire code in your area and will need to pass a rigorous inspection before being activated and deemed safe. Installing a fire suppression system is a complicated job, and making mistakes as a DIYer is likely. Those mistakes can cause you to fail your inspection, which means you’ll have to spend more time fixing the issues or money to have a certified plumber do the work for you. It’s best to hire a professional.

You can fireproof an existing door to some extent, but it's better to remove the old door and replace it with a fire-rated model. Anything dealing with extreme heat needs rigorous testing and a door you DIY fireproof will not undergo the same safety measures as a premade one. Consider a door with a rating of at least 30 minutes or more in residential areas.