Chimney fires prompt safety reminder
Firefighters are reminding homeowners to take care following two chimney fires on Tuesday (19 October).
Crews from Whitchurch, Basingstoke, Andover and Eastleigh worked with firefighters from Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service at a house in Well Street, Burghclere.
The call came in at 10:30 and the chimney breast was well alight. Firefighters wore breathing apparatus and used a hose reel to put the fire out, as well as ladders and the aerial ladder platform to inspect the roof.
The stop message was received at 13:20 and post-incident community safety activities were carried out at neighbouring properties before crews left.
Later that night, firefighters from Hightown attended a chimney fire in Witts Hill, Southampton.
They were called at 19:06 and put the fire out before the aerial ladder platform from St Mary’s was used to carry out a visual and thermal scan.
The stop message came in at 20:05.
Station Manager Lee Cordwell said:
“As we approach that time of year when the nights become darker and colder, people will be lighting their fires.
“Unfortunately, open fires and log burners can lead to chimney fires so please make sure yours has been swept, especially if you haven’t used it for a while.”
If you have an open fire or log burner at home, these simple steps will reduce the chances of having a fire in your chimney:
- Sweep the chimney before use if you haven’t used it for some time
- Ensure a fireguard is in front of the fire at all times
- Sparkguards can prevent a serious property fire
- Extinguish the fire before going to bed or leaving the house
- Never use petrol or paraffin to light your fire
