Fire crews issue advice following two chimney fires

We are reminding residents to take extra precautions when using chimneys following two separate incidents recently in the north of the county.

A crew from Newcastle went to an address on Manor Road, Newcastle-under-Lyme, just after 8.15pm on Saturday (20 January) after a small chimney fire spread inside a home.

The fire was quickly extinguished and, thankfully, no one was injured.

The following day, (Sunday 21 January), a crew from Leek attended the scene of another chimney fire near Woodside Lane, Leek.

Chimney rods were used to extinguish the fire. The rods are around a meter long and allow crews to access the inside of a chimney and log burning flues. A hose reel can also be attached to the rod and used to extinguish any fire that might be located further up a chimney.

No one was injured.

Both of the people involved in the incidents were spoken to by crews about how to limit the chances of accidental fires happening by heating the home.

Station Manager Mark Tattum said: “Accidental fires caused by people heating their homes are more commonplace over the winter period, and that’s why we’re urging residents to make sure they’re aware of the risks and how they can prevent them.

“People using log burners should have regular inspections of their chimneys, making sure they are cleaned quarterly and fire guards are used at all times.

“If you’re burning wood, make sure it’s completely dry before being used and stored far away from any naked flames or heat source. If you’re using poor quality fuel, the chimney can easily block, leading to a build-up of carbon monoxide and an increased risk of fire.

We are also reminding residents across Staffordshire to Be Warm, Be Safe. With household costs such as rent, food and energy bills rising you may be looking at ways to save money and cheaper ways to heat your home this winter. 

Just remember, don’t make cuts when it comes to fire safety.

For more information on chimney fire safety, visit: Chimney fire safety (staffordshirefire.gov.uk).

You can also visit our website for tips on how to keep warm safely this winter: Be Warm. Be Safe. (staffordshirefire.gov.uk).