FIREFIGHTERS have tackled 14 chimney fires between Christmas and the new year.
Fire service Assistant Chief Officer, Kevin Butcher, said: “Every winter we respond to a number of chimney fires as a result of householders not cleaning them regularly.
“But this past week has seen a large influx, especially in the New Forest where there have been 14, and this could be down to the poor weather conditions.
“Chimney fires are dangerous as they can spread quickly through roof spaces or floor cavities endangering the lives of the property’s occupants as well as causing extensive damage.
“The large majority of chimney fires are down to poor maintenance but regular checks and cleaning can prevent your festivities going up in smoke.”
To avoid chimney fires, Hampshire Fire and Rescue provides the following safety tips: sweep chimneys if they have not been used for some time; extinguish fires before going to bed or leaving the house and never use petrol or paraffin to light a fire.
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