Chimney fires continue to catch residents off guard!
“Clean chimneys are safer chimney’s” - that’s the message coming from Warwickshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service, after receiving a number of calls relating to chimney fires.
From October 2006 to March 2007, there have been 45 chimney fires in Warwickshire, 33 of which were in south of the county. Chimney fires can be extremely dangerous. Often small fires can smoulder for hours or even days in the chimney flue and therefore can easily go undetected, until it is too late!
Watch Manager, Bill Barber said:
“Over the last couple of months we have attended a number of incidents relating to chimney fires, some of which have caused significant fire damage to people’s homes. Before lighting a fire, it is essential that chimneys be cleaned thoroughly to remove debris, soot and bird’s nests etc. It will also ensure that smoke and gases can escape safely. If you are unsure whether your flue is blocked please get it checked before using!”
By following a few simple tips, you can reduce the chance of having a chimney fire:
Make sure that you have your chimney cleaned at least twice a year by a reputable company
Don’t leave clothes near an open fire
Do not use accelerants to light your fire
Before you go to bed, make sure that the fire is completely out
And finally, always ensure that you have a working smoke alarm in your home.
For more information on how to keep your home safe call 01926 466282 and find out whether you are eligible for a Free Home Fire Safety Check. Alternatively log onto: http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/fireandrescue
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For further information please contact Bill Barber on 01789 293271 or Lisa Mowe, Communications Officer, Warwickshire County Council on 01926 412513.
Editor’s notes:
Fires by area in South Warwickshire,
Stratford: 11
Bidford: 1
Alcester: 1
Southam: 5
Fenny Compton: 2
Shipston: 6