The Charcoal Companion Chimney Charcoal Starter lights charcoal without lighter fluid and is safer for the environment. Place a sheet of crumpled newspaper or paraffin fire starter in the bottom, fill the top with charcoal, and light the paper or starter. After 15 minutes you have a chimney full of hot coals. The chimney holds up to 5 pounds of charcoal. The hardwood handle ensures a safe grip.