Alaskan firefighters have claimed that a dirty chimney was to blame for a chimney fire that erupted at a home in South Anchorage, Alaska, which acts as a reminder for British residents to ensure that components such as chimney cowls are kept clean.
According to Alaskan news source KTUU.com, the Anchorage Fire Department (AFD) responded. to the 6900 block of Shane Place after receiving a call from a homeowner who noticed smoke being released from a neighbour's chimney.
AFD captain Jeff Hoke said: "The cause appears to be a fire in the fireplace, and they didn't have the chimney cleaned - so the message I would give would be to get your chimney cleaned."
This news comes after Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) issued a warning to local residents last month regarding chimney safety and urged them to ensure that their chimneys are efficiently maintained.
HFRS group manager Kevin Oxlade of the community safety department said: "Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential to reduce the risk of your home going up in smoke."