Chimney Safety week 2024

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) is supporting Chimney Fire Safety week, which runs from 2^nd – 8^th September 2024.

Chimney fires are commonly started due to an accumulation of soot and can cause extensive damage and in some cases, a danger to life.  Most chimney fires are preventable and regular inspection and cleaning of chimney flues will help prevent fires within them.

There are simple steps that can be taken to greatly reduce the chances of having a fire start in a chimney:

• Sweeping the chimney before use if it hasn’t been used for some time.
• Ensure a fireguard is always in front of the fire.
• Extinguishing the fire before going to bed or leaving the house.
• Never using petrol or paraffin to light a fire.

Not only does regular sweeping and maintenance decrease the likelihood of a chimney fire, but it can also avoid a dangerous accumulation of carbon monoxide gas.  Carbon Monoxide is a highly poisonous gas that has no colour, taste or smell.  Fuel burning appliances such as stoves, fires, boilers and water heaters can produce carbon monoxide if they are incorrectly fitted, badly repaired or poorly maintained or if flues, chimneys or vents are blocked.

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms that are maintained and working properly will save lives.

Home Safety Manager, Wayne Thomas said:

Should you have concerns regarding safety issues in your home, a free Safe and Well visit from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service can be arranged by calling 0800 169 1234 or visiting our website.

If you would like further Chimney Safety advice, please visit: Chimneys, Open Fires and Wood Burning Stoves (mawwfire.gov.uk)