As people prepare for cosy nights in by the fire with the low temperatures, it’s vital to remember that chimneys and log burners need regular maintenance. The heat from these appliances can reach extreme levels, and if soot or debris build up, it can ignite and cause a serious fire. Always use a professional chimney sweep as they’ll inspect your chimney thoroughly and provide a certificate for peace of mind. Attempting to clean it yourself can leave hidden hazards behind.
Chimney and log burner fires can spread rapidly, causing devastating damage to homes and putting lives at risk. Warning signs of a chimney fire include a loud roaring noise from the chimney, sparks or flames visible from the chimney pot, and smoke or burning smells in adjoining rooms or loft spaces.
Recommended sweeping frequency:
- Wood-burning stoves/log burners: four times a year
- Coal: twice a year
- Smokeless fuels, oils, or gas: at least once a year
Top tips to stay safe:
- Use only dry, seasoned wood – never burn treated wood or accelerants.
- Store extra wood outside, away from the house.
- Keep your chimney and flue clean and well maintained.
- Ensure fires are fully extinguished before leaving the house or going to bed.
- Never block air vents or air bricks – airflow is essential.
- Keep flammable items well away from the fire or stove and use a non-combustible hearth to protect the floor.
- To dispose of hot ashes safely, first let them cool completely (up to 48 hours), then store them in a metal container, never plastic, and keep it outdoors away from anything flammable, before placing in general waste or using in the garden once fully cold.
- Fit a carbon monoxide alarm near any fuel-burning appliance.
If a chimney fire breaks out:
- Get out, stay out, and call 999 immediately.
- If safe, close air vents and flue dampers to reduce oxygen supply.
- Move flammable materials away from the fireplace.
Ensure you have a working smoke alarm on every level of your home to give you an early warning of a fire staring in your home. This will give you enough time to escape before the fire spreads.
