Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service is supporting Chimney Fire Safety Week, part of the Government’s Fire Kills campaign, this September. From 1 September to 5 September, Chimney Fire Safety Week aims to help homeowners act responsibly by getting their chimneys swept in time for winter. 

With 40% of chimney fires in England taking place in January to March¹, it’s a great idea to start preparing early. Chimneys should be swept twice a year by an approved sweep to remove soot and tar deposits, as well as check for potential damage inside the flue. Using quality assured fuel along with sweeping can help reduce the likelihood of a property fire as well as reduce harmful emissions. 

Speak to a sweep! 

To keep you and your family safe from a potential fire, it is important to: 

1. 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. However, should a fire start, working smoke alarms can give you an early warning. A fire plan can also ensure your family escape in a fire. 
2. Have at least one smoke alarm on every floor of your home and test them at least monthly.  
3. Don’t keep this advice to yourself – pass it on. Is there anyone you know who may need your help in organising a sweep or testing their alarms? 

For more useful information, visit our website - www.dwfire.org.uk/chimney-safety/ 

Other useful websites:

www.hetas.co.uk/ 

nfcc.org.uk/