Below we have highlighted some of the biggest chimney fire threats and some ways you can overcome them. This will help prevent a fire from breaking out in your home, and most importantly keep your family safe at the same time!
The most common cause for chimney fires;
· Infrequent cleaning and sweeping
· Incorrect installation of stoves
· Burning ‘unseasoned’ or wet wood.
· Overnight burning or smouldering wood for long periods of time in a stove.
How to prevent a chimney fire
N.B Keep your chimney clean
It is difficult for a clean chimney to catch fire. It’s important to implement a regular sweeping schedule. This removes the hazards that build up, e.g. flammable tar and soot deposits. A clean chimney will also help to heat the home effectively.
Hire a chimney sweep
It’s important to use a reputable qualified chimney sweep. It’s a quick and easy process that will make a huge difference to the health of your chimney. See below for recommendations about how often you should organise a chimney sweep.
· Gas/oil – once a year
· Bituminous coal- twice a year
· Wood/turf- up to four times a year
· Smokeless coal – at least once a year
Comply with building recommendations
If you are updating your home, or adding a stove, check with a reputable chimney sweep to ensure the stove is being installed compliantly and within building regulations.
Use the correct fuel
Using the recommended coal type will protect your chimney from damage along with keeping your family safe from harmful gases.
General tips to remember
· Never leave your fire unattended
· Use a fire guard where appropriate
· Keep wood away from open fire
· Do not burn household waste
· Make sure to have smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and test regularly.
The information contained in this article is from https://www.aviva.ie/insurance/home-insurance/fire-safety-tips/. Source, Aviva December 2018. Cornmarket cannot be held responsible for content contained on external websites.