As we head towards autumn and winter, Chimney Fire Safety Week (7-13 September) highlights the simple steps homeowners can take to reduce the risk of chimney fires and keep their homes safe. The national awareness campaign supported by HETAS and Fire Kills encourages people to have their chimneys inspected and swept before they begin using open fires, wood burners and solid fuel appliances more regularly.
Chimney fires are often caused by a build-up of soot and tar inside a chimney or flue. While many incidents are preventable, they can spread quickly and cause serious damage to homes and property. Regular maintenance helps reduce this risk and can also improve the efficiency of heating appliances.
The campaign also raises awareness of the dangers of carbon monoxide. A blocked or damaged chimney can increase the risk of carbon monoxide entering a home. As the gas cannot be seen, smelt or tasted, it is important to have working carbon monoxide alarms alongside smoke alarms.
There are several simple actions you can take to help keep your home safe:
- Arrange for your chimney to be professionally swept and inspected before the heating season starts.
- Use the correct fuel for your appliance and follow the manufacturer's guidance.
- Make sure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms are fitted, tested regularly and working correctly.
- Never leave a fire unattended and always make sure it is fully extinguished before going to bed or leaving your home.
At LiveWest, we want our customers to feel safe and secure in their homes. Taking a few simple precautions before winter can help prevent avoidable incidents and give you peace of mind when using fires and wood-burning stoves. If you have concerns about fire safety in your home, there is a range of advice available through our fire safety information pages.
Most chimney fires can be prevented through regular maintenance and safe burning habits. Chimney Fire Safety Week is a timely reminder to prepare now, before the colder months arrive and heating appliances are used more frequently.
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