5 things you need to know to avoid a chimney fire and a €500 call out fee from the Fire Brigade
- Install grills to avoid birds nesting in the chimney flues
- Ensure that wood and turf have dried out adequately before use. This will reduce the amounts of tarry deposits these fuels produce when burnt
- Keep fires small: Avoid stoking them up too high
- Secure a sparkguard to the fireplace if children are in the room and never leave them alone with an open fire
- Have your chimney swept regularily. Removing the soot and tar from inside the chimney is the only secure way to avoid a chimney fire.
What do I do if a fire starts?
Don’t panic! Place a sparkguard in front of the fire to stop hot soot falling out. Pour water over the fire to extinguish it and keep a supply of water available, should it be needed. Phone the Fire Brigade and keep a watchful eye on the fire until they arrive.
NATIONAL SAFETY COUNCIL RECOMMENDS THAT CHIMNEYS BE CLEANED
AT LEAST ONCE A YEAR – MORE OFTEN DEPENDING ON USE.
AT LEAST ONCE A YEAR – MORE OFTEN DEPENDING ON USE.