Fire service warns of chimney fires as winter approaches
West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service has issued a warning about chimneys as we approach the winter months.
Open fires and stoves can become a serious fire safety hazard if the correct precautions are not followed.
West Sussex fire service reported that it was called to extinguish more than 214 chimney fires in 2010.
Jackie Boyle, Community fire safety officer, said: “The weather has turned considerably colder and we know people are turning to open fires. The best piece of advice we can give to anyone planning to light a fire is to make sure they get their chimney checked and swept. If you can, inspect your chimney breast, particularly in the roof space. Make sure that it is sound and that the sparks or fumes cannot escape through cracks or broken bricks. Of course, you should also make sure you have a working smoke alarm on each level of your home – early detection saves lives.”
UK fire statistics show that each year around 30,000 houses have chimney fires.
This will mostly be caused by not getting the chimney swept often enough or burning fuel that is inappropriate for the appliance and causing tar to build up in the chimney. More information can be found on how to ensure your chimney is safe on The Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps website.