Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

at 10/01/2006 15:14

As can be seen from the Fire Brigade Newsdesk there have been several chimney fires recently. As a safety precaution the public are reminded below of some steps to take to ensure their safety.

MAKE A CLEAN SWEEP OF IT
Cornwall County Fire Brigade attend over 400 chimney fires every year - remember: a chimney fire could spread into the rest of your home, resulting in severe damage, personal injury or even death.

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 (N.B. If you regularly burn wood, we recommend that the chimney is swept twice a year).

Having your chimney swept will ensure that the flue is not blocked, and that smoke and gases can escape safely.

USE a spark guard fixed to the wall when a fire is left unattended, or when there are children or elderly people around
DO NOT place clothes or other flammable material on the guard or too close to the fire
MAKE SURE you have a bedtime safety routine to keep your family safe
USE fire lighters, never flammable liquids
CHECK that your smoke alarm is working
Other information:

If you would like free advice on chimney fire safety, contact our freephone community fire safety helpline on 0800 3581 999.