How do you open an indoor fireplace flue damper?
If you do not have a gas log fireplace and you cannot open or close your damper it is likely that it has corroded to the point of non-function. The chimney is a very acidy and corrosive environment any metal in it will rust and degrade rapidly over time. Lubricate the damper with a penetrating oil and try to loosen it by hand or call a chimney sweep to come and work on it.