BBC West Midlands this morning reported on a warning from the Shropshire fire Service about the hike in chimney Fires. Approximately 25 fires in the last month are attributed to the rise in popularity of wood burning and multi fuel stoves. See the report here at 6.55a.m. 25/01/2016 http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b06yg6rc
We would always recommend asking a HETAS registered installer to fit your wood burning appliance. Find your Installer and follow their advice here – http://www.hetas.co.uk/consumer/hetas-advice/
There are a number of things you can do to help minimalise the risk of fire associated with having a wood burning fire, including:
- Regular Sweeping
- Lining your chimney
- Operating your appliance according to manufacturer’s instructions
- Burning seasoned wood
- Not leaving the appliance to burn overnight
- Using fire guards
- Installing and checking smoke alarms and Carbon Monoxide detectors regularly
- Use a Hetas registered installer
- Install wood burning appliances the recommended distance from combustibles
- Regular maintenance of your appliance
You may be eligible for free smoke alarm and a home fire safety visit from the Shropshire Fire Service. https://www.shropshirefire.gov.uk/free-home-fire-safety-visit Shropshire Fire issue this safety booklet https://www.shropshirefire.gov.uk/safety-community/safety-booklet
To contact a registered chimney sweep, visit The National Association of Chimney Sweeps website, who also give advice on how to heat your home safely. http://res.cloudinary.com/nacs/image/upload/v1444837336/NACS_6_page_a5_flyer.pdf
