Chimney Fire Safety week – 1–7 September 2025

In the last 12 months, MAWWFRS has responded to 104 chimney fires.

Chimney fires commonly start due to an accumulation of soot and can cause extensive damage – in some cases pose a danger to life. Most chimney fires are preventable. Regular inspection and cleaning of chimney flues will help prevent fires within chimneys.

Regular sweeping and maintenance not only decreases the chance of a chimney fire, but it can also avoid a dangerous accumulation of carbon monoxide gas. Carbon Monoxide is a highly poisonous gas that has no colour, taste or smell. Carbon Monoxide can seep into properties through shared flues or chimneys, accumulate in blocked chimneys and can even permeate through brick walls and plaster.

Home Safety Manager, Gareth Hands said:

“Without regular maintenance a poorly maintained chimney can lead to a fire, which has the potential to spread to other areas, creating significant damage to your home. We recommend that your chimney is swept at least twice a year, however as a bare minimum you should have it swept prior to use in the Autumn months.”

There are simple steps that can be taken to greatly reduce the chances of having a fire start in a chimney:

• Sweep the chimney before use – if it hasn’t been used for some time.
• Ensure a fire or spark guard is always in front of the fire.
• Extinguishing the fire before going to bed or leaving the house.
• Never using petrol or paraffin to light a fire.
• Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are regularly maintained and working.

If you would like further Chimney Safety advice, please visit: Chimneys, Open Fires and Wood Burning Stoves (mawwfire.gov.uk)

Should you have concerns regarding safety issues in your home, a free Safe and Well visit from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service can be arranged by calling 0800 169 1234 or visiting our website.