Firefighters in Burnham-On-Sea have this week issued a safety warning after tackling three chimney fires.
Crews have been busy over the past week as the return of cold weather has prompted residents to light up fires in their homes, causing chimney fires.
Burnham fire crews were called to Harp Road at 7.40pm last night (Sunday, March 10th) after the residents reported their chimney alight. The fire was put out safely.
Two fire engines from Burnham were also called to West Road in Lympsham on Saturday at 3.10pm to tackle another blaze involving a chimney. Crews extinguished the blaze using chimney gear and one hose reel jet.
And in a third incident last Thursday, which was also in Lympsham, crews were called at 7.50pm to a separate chimney fire. Crews had to remove a wood burner to gain access to the hearth. Chimney rods were used to extinguish the fire.
Crews have urged homeowners in the Burnham area to check the safety of their chimneys.
A spokesman told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “With the return of colder weather, warm open fires are being lit. The fire service encourages residents to check their chimney is clean, safe and swept before lighting a fire.”
“Chimney fires can cause serious structural damage to a home, with the risks being even greater if the property has a thatched roof. The damage is not only fire based but also the dirt and smell left from all the soot and smoke, which would affect your personal property.”
“Chimneys need to be dirt free to allow the free passage of dangerous combustion gasses, so regular cleaning will remove soot and creosote, and help prevent dangerous chimney fires. Make sure your chimney is swept regularly by a registered chimney sweep.”
