Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

Rose, Truro at 09/12/2008 18:44

Perranporth appliance have attended a further chimney fire. The crews used hearth kit, and ladders to extinguish the fire.

Most chimney fires are preventable. Regular inspection and cleaning of chimney flues will help prevent fires within chimneys. Have your chimney swept by a competent chimney sweep at least once a year, preferably before you light the fire for the first time in the Autumn.

A few simple tips...
Simple tips to greatly reduce your chances of having a fire in your chimney:

Sweep the chimney before use if you haven't used it for some time
Ensure a fireguard is in front of the fire at all times
Sparkguards can prevent a serious property fire
Extinguish the fire before going to bed or leaving the house
Never use petrol or paraffin to light your fire

In the event of a chimney fire...

Dial 999 and ask for the Fire Service. It will help if someone can wait outside to meet them.
If you have a conventional open fire, extinguish the fire by gently splashing water onto the open fire.
If you have a solid fuel appliance, close down the ventilation as much as possible.
Move furniture and rugs away from the fireplace and remove any nearby ornaments.
Place a sparkguard in front of the fire.
Feel the chimney breast in other rooms for signs of heat.
If a wall is becoming hot, move furniture away.
Ensure that access to your attic or roof space is available for the Fire Service as they will want to thoroughly check this area for signs of possible fire spread.
Always call the Fire Service for a chimney fire - it has the ability to destroy your home