Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

Lower Dimson, Gunnislake, between Callington and Tavistock at 24/12/2011 22:20

Two fire appliances from Callington attended and firefighters used a stirrup pump and rods to extinguish a fire in the chimney of an open fire.

General Fire Safety Advice relating to Chimneys:
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 and Rescue Service for a chimney fire - it has the ability to destroy your home.

Please have a Safe and Merry Christmas.

Related item: http://www.cornwall.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=7278