曲突徙薪 meaning in English

bend the chimney and remove the fuel to prevent a possible fire -- take precautions against a possible danger [damage]; clear up the corner of firewood to prevent a fire -- take precautionary measures; make provisions before troubles occur; rectify blocked chimney and remove firewood; prevention is better than cure.; the chimney should be made crooked and the fuel removed (or the house might be set on fire)