WITH summer drawing to a close, Chimney Fire Safety Week takes place from 9 –15 September and this provides a timely reminder to make sure that your chimney is ready for the winter months ahead.

As part of the national Fire Kills campaign, Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service is urging householders to ensure their chimney is safe and to have their chimney swept by a registered chimney sweep.

The Fire Service has provided some top tips for safer chimneys:

• always use a fire guard to protect against flying sparks from hot embers

• keep chimneys and flues clean and well maintained

• make sure embers are properly put out before you go to bed or leaving the house

• when burning wood, use dry, seasoned woods only

• never burn cardboard boxes or waste paper

• do not overload the grate

• consider having a carbon monoxide detector fitted as an additional safeguard against the build-up of poisonous fumes

• have a working smoke alarm

George Setter, Fire Reduction Manager explains: “With the colder, winter months fast approaching, people will begin to start using open fires and their chimneys again. In order to keep you and your family safe from fire, you need to take necessary steps such as ensuring your chimney is swept regularly, depending upon what fuel you burn and I would urge all householders to have a working smoke alarm in their home.”