East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service is thinking about cold chills, despite seeing record breaking heatwaves this year!
It’s supporting Chimney Safety Week (2-8 September 2019) by highlighting some simple hints and tips to “enjoy the fire you want and not the one you don’t”.
Even a small fire can cause significant damage and disruption.
Fire isn't the only risk it's important to install a carbon monoxide alarm in any room that contains a solid fuel burning appliance.
Safety advice
Make sure your chimney is swept regularly
Chimneys should be swept according to the type of fuel used:
- Smokeless fuels - at least once a year
- Bitumous coal - at least twice a year
- Wood - quarterly when in use
- Oil - once a year
- Gas - once a year (Any work on gas appliances requires a Gas Safe registered installer/engineer)
Keep chimneys and flues clean and well maintained
Be careful when using open fires to keep warm. Make sure you 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 air bricks
Find out more: https://www.esfrs.org/your-safety/safer-homes/chimneys/