19 January 2009

The number of chimney fires is continuing to rise this winter in spite of a series of reminders and warnings from Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service.

The organisation believes the increase could be one of the side-effects of the current credit crunch.

There were 22 chimney fires in December 2008, and there have already been 29 since 1 January 2009. This figure includes six over the past three days in Brill, Stowe, Newton Blossomville, Lee Common, Long Crendon and Fulmer.

Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service recorded a total of 138 chimney fires in 2008, compared with 97 in 2007.

Mick Martin, Area Manager Response, said: “We are keen to draw attention to this once again as it appears that more and more people are using open fires and wood burners because of the rising costs of gas, electricity and oil.

“We are urging anyone using an open fire to remember how important it is to have the chimney swept regularly, and to make sure soot and ash are not allowed to build up.”

Mick is advising people to follow these simple instructions:

• Have your chimney swept at least once a year – and at least twice a year if you burn wood
  
  
• If you have recently opened up and started to use a fireplace, make sure it is inspected by a qualified person
  
  
• When burning wood, use dry, seasoned woods only
  
  
• Build smaller, hotter fires that burn more completely and produce less smoke
  
  
• Never burn cardboard boxes or waste paper
  
  
• Do not overload the grate or appliance
  
  
• Use a fire or spark guard to prevent accidental fires
  
  
• Inspect your chimney breast, particularly in the roof space. Make sure that it is sound and that the sparks or fumes cannot escape through cracks or broken bricks
  
  
• Consider having a carbon monoxide detector fitted
  
  
• Extinguish the fire before going to bed or leaving the house
  
  
• Ensure wood burners are installed and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions
  
  
• Make sure the appliance receives enough air to allow the fuel to burn properly
  

Fire safety advice is free and easy to obtain from Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service. If you would like any advice or information, please contact the community safety team on 01296 744477 or send an email to cs@bucksfire.gov.uk

For general advice about fire safety in the home, please click HERE

Chimney fires 2007 and 2008 - breakdown by district