Contrast colour high contrast | A A A |  |  Privacy & Cookie Policy |  Site Map
DFRS Logo Fire Kills Dorset Fire and Rescue Service

    working in partnership to make Dorset safer

A reminder about how to avoid chimney fires

As the weather turns colder obviously people want to use their fires or woodburners to keep warm, but every year we attend numerous chimney fires.
 
Every year, as the weather starts to turn much colder, we see an increase in chimney fires. Chimney fires are preventable if the right precautions are taken. Having your chimney swept is vital. The function of sweeping the flue/chimney is to remove the deposits that build up. By sweeping the flue/chimney it ensures that there is a clear and safe passage for the safe exit of combustion products, which are caused by the burning process. This lessens the chances of the chimney catching fire.
 
The Service has the following guidance for preventing chimney fires:
  • Keep chimneys and flues clean and well maintained - ensure your chimney is swept regularly.
  • Make sure embers are under control and put out properly when you go to bed.
  • Be careful when using open fires to keep warm. Make sure you always use a fireguard to protect against flying sparks from hot embers.
  • Fit a smoke alarm on every level of your home and test it weekly.
  • Contact Dorset Fire and Rescue Service for a free home fire safety check.
 
Dorset Fire and Rescue Service provide free home safety advice. Where appropriate these involve members of DFRS staff visiting your home and if needed, fitting or replacing smoke alarms, giving you advice on the use of candles, unattended cooking, electric blankets, overloading sockets, chimneys, low energy light bulbs and much more. This is all free of charge with the aim of encouraging you to think about fire safety in the home. Sign up online or call freephone 0800 0382323 or 01305 252600.