chimneyfireweekChimney Fire Safety Week, which started this week, provides a timely reminder to make sure your chimney is ready for the winter . The Office of National Statistics refers to a chimney fire as any fire in an occupied building where the fire was confined within the chimney structure. In the year 2013-2014 there were just 7,700, a decline of 18% (9,400) from the year previous. This decline is a positive step and proves how increased awareness of the causes of chimney fires can prevent major damage to homes, especially since the sales and installations of stoves and log burners has increased over the last few years.     Recommended frequencies for swept chimney's:
  • Smokeless coal - at least once a year
  • Wood - up to four times a year
  • Bituminous coal - twice a year
  • Oil or gas - once a year
What causes chimney fires?
  • Chimney fires usually occur because the deposits of combustion are left within the flueways.
  • By definition, a chimney fire is the burning of soot or creosote within the appliance, outlet or flue system, which can result in improper function of the appliance, damage to the flue, house or surrounding structures and can even start a house fire.
  • Chimney fires are usually started when high temperatures or flames from a very hot fire extend into the appliance outlet or flue and the ignition of the combustible deposits within occurs.
Conclusion: So please get your chimney swept by a trusted chimney sweep before you light you fires for winter otherwise it might not be the only fire you will be starting this winter.