As the colder months approach, Flue Supplies is proud to join the nationwide Chimney Fire Safety Week, taking place from 1st to 7th September 2025. This important safety campaign, run in partnership with HETAS and the Fire Kills initiative, aims to raise awareness about chimney fire risks and promote proactive safety measures.
Why Chimney Fire Safety Matters Now
Chimney fires continue to pose risks: In England, the total number of chimney fires for 2024–25 was 2,019, which is about 1.4% of all fires, although, encouragingly, this represents a 5% reduction compared to the previous year.
Certain regions face higher risks: Between April 2024 and March 2025, Devon and Somerset recorded 181 chimney fires, the highest in England, followed by Dorset and Wiltshire at 113. These figures underline the importance of community-level preparedness.
Key Safety Messages & Best Practices
- Regular Sweeping & Servicing - Wood-burning stoves should have their chimneys swept twice annually; with smokeless fuels, at least once a year is recommended.
- Use Approved Professionals - Always call a HETAS-registered sweep or servicing technician for dependable and safe maintenance.
- Fuel Safety Matters - Burn only ‘Ready to Burn’ certified wood (moisture ≤ 20%) or low-sulphur solid fuels, which improve efficiency and reduce fire risk.
- Install Smoke & CO Alarms - Equip every floor with both smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and test them monthly.
- Understand Creosote Danger - Creosote is a flammable tar-like residue, which builds up quickly in poorly swept chimneys and can ignite, leading to dangerous fires.