Check Your Chimney!
As the summer draws to a close and we prepare for colder evenings, Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service is urging people who have open fires or stoves to take care.
Please ensure your chimney is in good condition and is regularly swept.
A blocked or defective chimney can cause carbon monoxide poisoning as well as a fire. So regular inspection and cleaning of chimney flues can help to identify and eliminate issues before they become a problem.
Make sure your chimney is swept regularly by a certified chimney sweep. The recommended frequencies depend upon the fuel you burn.
As a quick guide, recommended frequencies are:
- 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 (refer to the Gas Safe Register for gas)
It is also important to have working smoke alarms in your home and that you test them once a month.
If you are using an open fire or stove it is also advisable to invest in a carbon monoxide detector, as early warning can make the difference.
Top tips – Safe Chimney Use
- Always use a fire guard to protect against flying sparks from hot embers.
- Make sure embers are properly put out before you go to bed.
- Keep chimneys and flues clean and well maintained.
- If you have recently opened up, or are about to start to use a fireplace, make sure it is inspected by a qualified person.
- When burning wood, use dry, seasoned woods only.
- Never burn cardboard boxes or paper.
- Inspect your chimney breast, particularly in the roof space.
- Make sure that the chimney breast is sound, and that sparks or fumes cannot escape through cracks or broken bricks.
- Ensure wood burners are installed and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Make sure the appliance receives enough air to allow the fuel to burn properly.
- Consider fitting a carbon monoxide detector.
Firefighters support Boat Fire Safety Week 2023
Firefighters delivered boat fire safety and seasonal water safety advice.
Emergency services across the Thames Valley join forces with local Olympic swimmer to share important water safety message
As the weather gets warmer we’re working with our partners, sharing how to stay safe …
Stay safe, stay off the ice
With the snow and icy conditions set to last for several days, Buckinghamshire Fire and …