Make it a clean sweep before lighting fires in the home

WITH autumn on its way Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service (WFRS), the National Association of Chimney Sweeps and HETAS have joined forces to urge householders to ensure their chimney is safe and to have their chimney swept by a registered chimney sweep this Chimney Fire Safety Week 3rd to 9th September. There were 65 chimney fires across the county between April 2017 and March 2018.

There are steps homeowners can take to prevent and protect their property one of those is to make sure the chimney has been swept regularly.

Warwickshire County Councillor Portfolio Holder for Community Safety and Fire Andy Crump added: “With the colder, winter months looming, people will begin to start using open fires and their chimneys again. In order to keep you and your family safe from fire, you need to take necessary steps such as ensuring your chimney is swept regularly, depending upon what fuel you burn and I would urge all householders to have a working smoke alarm in their home.”

Open fires not only warm up a home, but also create a unique relaxing ambience. With the numbers of people using open fires growing, Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service have provided some top tips for safer chimneys:

• Always use a fire guard to protect against flying sparks from hot embers
• Make sure embers are properly put out before you go to bed
• Keep chimneys and flues clean and well maintained