Date: 3rd September, 2018
This year’s Chimney Fire Safety Week (3rd-9th September) calls for homeowners to clean up their act and get their chimneys swept to prevent chimney damage, and, in worse cases, household fires. In 2017/18 Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service attended over 200 chimney fire related incidents.
There are steps homeowners can take to prevent and protect their property. To keep you and your family safe from fire you should make sure you have your chimney swept regularly, depending on what fuel you burn, before the colder months set in and you begin to use your fire again. To make the most of your wood burning stove, ensure you are using quality woodfuel, maintain your appliance and chimney regularly and check you are using your appliance in accordance with the manufacturers’ instructions.
Group Manager Richard Coleman said “A clean chimney can help prevent fires and structural damage to your property. Regular cleaning of your chimney or flue will eliminate the build-up of soot and clear obstructions such as bird or animal nests, leaves and debris. It is not enough to use a vacuum cleaner and you should make sure that your chimney or flue is inspected regularly”.
HETAS who are supporting Chimney Fire Safety Week, are a not-for-profit organisation that offers a competent person scheme for installers of biomass and solid fuel heating, registration for retailers and chimney sweeps and approval of appliances and fuels. They will be sharing advice & tips for homeowners and statistics through its social media channels during the week. You can follow them using the following accounts:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/hetas_uk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hetasuk
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hetas_uk
ENDS