Fire issue chimney safety warning

Tuesday 30 October 2018

As temperatures are plummeting and people are starting to light fires to keep warm, the Guernsey Fire & Rescue Services are warning people to be careful with their chimneys.

A fifth of all reported fires on Guernsey are started in chimneys, according to statistics from the Fire Service, and while they are a great way to keep warm, there is also advice for people to follow to keep safe.

Head of Fire Safety Martin Lucas said it was important that people heeded that advice to help prevent a blaze in their own home.

“Approximately 15% to 20% of all fires in Guernsey each year are chimney fires. The most common causes are the infrequent sweeping and cleaning of chimneys or flues, burning unseasoned wood, burning wood overnight or smouldering it in wood stoves," he said.

“We are asking people to have their chimney or flue swept and make sure, if they are burning wood, it is dry and well-seasoned.  Signs of a chimney fire include excessive smoke, embers falling back into the hearth, sparks shooting from the chimney, or the walls of the chimney breast becoming hot to the touch. 

“Anyone who suspects their chimney may be on fire should call 999 immediately.”

Pictured: Guernsey Fire & Rescue Service in action, as they had to tackle one of the largest blazes in years at a Recycling centre on Bulwer Avenue in the summer.

The frequency of chimney sweeps depends on what type of fuel they are using according to Mr Lucas, but ensuring it is done regularly is the key to preventing any fires. Regular chimney and flue cleaning is also good for the environment, as it reduces emissions into the atmosphere because the fuel was completely combusted. 

“If people are using smokeless fuel, they should have it swept once a year, if using wood or bituminous coal, quarterly," Mr Lucas added. 

Anyone wanting further advice can call the Fire Safety Team on 724491 or email firesafety@gov.gg.