Warning after chimney fires in Ashford
A firefighter trains in
tackling a chimney fire
by Tim Collins
Kent Fire and Rescue Service
(KFRS) is urging residents to check their chimneys before using
open fires or wood burning stoves to heat their homes, following a
series of chimneys that were set ablaze.
Crews were called to four
chimney fires last Friday, January 11, attending three properties
near Ashford and one in Folkestone.
Two of these fires were
reported within half an hour of each other.
All of the fires reported
were accidental, and there were no injuries.
Stuart Skilton, KFRS head of Community Safety,
said: "We are advising residents who do use an open fire or wood
burning stove to have their chimney swept regularly and also to
consider having the condition of your chimney checked to ensure it
is safe.
"It is easy to overlook the
fact that a build up of soot and ash left over from previous fires
can lead to the chimney catching alight, presenting a real risk to
your home and family.
"Please also ensure you have
working smoke alarms fitted on every floor of your property to give
you the early warning needed in the event of a fire. Just three
breaths of toxic smoke from a fire in your home can be
deadly."
For free safety advice, call
0800 923 7000 or click here for more information.
To find a certified chimney sweep, or for more information
on chimney fire safety please visit the Institute of Chimney Sweeps
website.
14/01/13
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