Warning to residents following a log burner fire in Oldham

FIREFIGHTERS from Chadderton and Oldham Community Fire Stations raced to a house fire yesterday (Thursday 26 November) in Lily Street, Royton.

On arrival crews were faced with a fire believed to be caused by a blocked flue in a log burner.

Firefighters used one hose reel, a roof ladder, a short extension ladder and other specialist equipment to extinguish the fire.

Crews were in attendance for just over an hour. 

From November 2019 to March 2020 Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) attended 32 chimney fire related incidents - a decrease of 9 per cent in the number on chimney fires from the previous year.

Head of Prevention, Paul Duggan said: “Thankfully our quick-thinking actions of our crews prevented this incident from being any more serious. 

“This incident is a timely reminder following yesterday’s news from the government on the tier for Greater Manchester. With more people spending more time at home in the run-up to Christmas I’d urge everyone, if they haven’t already, to get their chimneys swept. Not only does this help to keep you safe from fire but it also makes your fire more efficient.”

Paul continued: “Before you light your next fire please inspect your chimney breast, and the roof space if you can. Look out for cracks or broken bricks that sparks or fumes could escape from when the fire is lit.

“And remember a working smoke alarm will give you and your household vital time to escape if a fire did occur in your home, so please make it a priority this weekend to test yours.”

To minimise the risk of a chimney fire in your home follow the top tips below:

• Keep chimneys and flues clean and well maintained
• Make sure embers are properly put out before you go to bed
• Always use a fire guard to protect against flying sparks from hot embers

How often should you clean your chimney?

• Oil - Once a year
• Gas - Once a year
• Bituminous coal - Twice a year
• Wood - Up to four times a year
• Smokeless coals - At least once a year

Find a chimney sweep near you by using one of the following:

• The Association of Professional and Independent Chimney Sweeps
• Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps

Residents are also encouraged to check with their home insurers on validation if your chimney has not been swept.

27/11/2020 16:09 PM