Chimney Fire Safety Week 2015

With approximately 7,000 chimney fires in England each year, Chimney Fire Safety Week 2015 (7-15 September) provides a timely reminder to ensure your chimney is ready for the coming winter months.

Regular inspection and cleaning of your chimney or flues will help to prevent fire by eliminating the build-up of soot and creosote in the lining of the chimney and clear obstructions such as bird nests, leaves and debris. 

Top tips for safe chimneys:

  • Keep chimneys and flues clean and well maintained
  • Always use a fire guard to protect against flying sparks from hot embers
  • Ensure the fire is extinguished before going to bed or leaving the house
  • Ensure good quality fuel is used
  • Never interrupt the air supply by blocking air vents or bricks
  • Choose the correct size appliance for your room (one which is too large will not burn all the fuel in the wood which can then form in the chimney as flammable creosote)

The regularity of chimney cleaning depends on the type of fuel you burn:

Smokeless coals

At least once a year

Oil

At least once a year

Gas

At least once a year

Bituminious Coal

Twice a year

Wood

Up to four times a year

If a fire does occur, a smoke alarm can give you the extra time you need to escape – make sure have a working smoke alarm and test it regularly.

A blocked chimney can also cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Minimise risk by ensuring your appliances are installed and maintained by competent engineers, never block flues, air vents or bricks and fit a carbon monoxide detector.

Chimney Fire Safety Week 2015 takes place from the 7-15 September. For more information and to find a registered chimney sweep, please visit the National Association of Chimney Sweeps (NACS) website: http://nacs.org.uk/

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