Warning after chimney fire

OXFORDSHIRE County Council Fire and Rescue Service were called to a chimney fire in Tetsworth near Thame earlier today(06/01), to deal with a chimney fire.

Fire crews from both Thame and Watlington Fire Stations attended the scene at around 10.30am, to find flames coming out of the top of the chimney stack, and immediately set to using a rodding system to apply water and extinguish the fire.

Fire crews then scaled the roof of the property to remove the chimney stack that had become unstable due to the heat of the fire.

Incident Commander, Station Manager Paul Webster said: “Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service recommends regular sweeping of chimneys to minimise the chances of a fire occurring; as the cold weather begins to set in now is the perfect time to have your chimney swept.

“Remember to have your chimney swept at least once a year, ideally before you light your first log or coal fire. Don’t let the sparks fly, make sure embers are under control, put out properly before you go out or to bed and use a British Standard fire guard to prevent sparks escaping.

“Store firewood away from fire places or stoves as there is a risk of accidental ignition via radiated heat, particularly over a period of time.”