Brighton and Hove’s fire chiefs issue seasonal chimney warning

By Tatiana Aversa Sanchez

Brighton and Hove’s fire chiefs have issued a seasonal warning about the risk of chimney fires.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said: “If you’re planning to spend a cosy Christmas in front of a roaring fire, don’t strike a match unless you are confident that your chimney is clear, clean and well maintained.

“At this time of year it can be tempting to clear out the grate and light the first winter fire in time for Christmas or new year guests to arrive.

“But you need to take care because chimneys are a common cause of house fires and can cause widespread damage.

“Make sure that your chimney or flue is clean and well maintained.

“Don’t light a fire if you can’t remember the last time it was checked and cleaned.

“The frequency with which a chimney should be swept depends on the type of fuel you burn.”

Steve Wright, the community safety team manager, said: “Although an open fire can provide extra warmth and a wonderful Christmas glow, we want people to be extra cautious this year and turn the central heating up a notch rather than light the fire if they can’t remember the last time they had the chimney checked and cleaned.

“Of course you need to make sure that you have a working smoke alarm on each floor in your home to give you and your family an early warning if the worst happens.

“If you do have a fire, get out, stay out and dial 999.”

The fire service website also warns: “If you do light a fire, always use a fire guard to protect against flying sparks, don’t overfill the grate and keep an extinguisher to hand.”

The fire service issued the safety warning as members of the Fire Brigades Union prepare for further strikes in its dispute with the government over pensions.

The FBU has announced strikes on Christmas Eve, from 7pm to midnight, New Year’s Eve, from 6.30pm to 12.30am, and Friday 3 January, from 6.30am to 8.30am.