Warnings from Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue over chimney fires
Firefighters say there's now more likelihood
Residents of Northamptonshire are being urged to check their chimneys and maintain them properly before the coming winter months.
Typically, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service sees an increase in the number of call outs to chimney fires in the colder months, and has already attended three in the last two weeks. We are therefore reminding residents to clean their chimneys before their first use of the season.
As temperatures get colder during winter, the use of fireplaces will naturally increase, and some people may consider using fireplaces as an alternative to avoid high energy prices.
Officers say chimneys should be cleaned four times a year if you are using wood, twice a year if you are using coal, and at least once a year if you are using smokeless fuels, oil, or gas. The Fire Service also advises installing at least one smoke alarm on each level of your home and testing these regularly as this could give a vital early warning sign if a fire does break out.
Prevention Team Leader, Tina Collett, said: “It is important to have your chimney swept regularly, depending on what fuel you burn, before the colder months set in and you begin to use your fire again.
"Modern sweeping techniques are quick, clean, and efficient, so it is worth taking the time to organise a chimney sweep and help take an extra step towards ensuring your family’s safety.”