THE "spiralling" cost of gas and electricity has led to a huge increase in chimneys and wood-burning stove incidents as families try to keep warm.

Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS) has seen a 240 per cent increase in incidents involving appliances across the two counties.

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The service has reported that it has seen a rise in the popularity of people using chimneys and wood-burning stoves because of the "spiralling cost of gas and electricity".

But this had led to an increase in incidents as people battle to keep themselves warm.

In 2021 there was reported 22 fires in Herefordshire and Worcestershire, but this has jumped to 75 in 2022.

Already in 2023, this figure is set to top 2022 as from January 20 to January 27 there were chimneys and wood-burning stove incidents reported daily.

Areas which have been the most affected by chimneys and wood-burning stove incidents are Evesham, Malvern, Leominster, Peterchurch and Tenbury.

As a result, HWFRS is now calling for people to take extra care after a spate of fires involving chimneys and wood-burning stoves.

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Emma added: “People would not think twice about getting their cars MOT’d but chimneys often get overlooked.

“Sweeping your chimney at least once a year and using a quality-assured fuel is the key to prevention.

“Not only does this remove soot and tar deposits but also gives chimney sweeps the opportunity to check for any problems with the chimney or liner.

“So, if your chimney is overdue for a sweep, now is the time to get it done and not add to the list of chimney fires.”

How often should chimneys be swept?

Smokeless Fuels – at least once a year

Wood – quarterly when in use

Oil – once a year

Gas – once a year (refer to Gas Safe Register)

How should I keep safe from chimney fires?

  • Keep chimneys, flues and appliances clean and well maintained
  • Don’t store wood too close to the fire.
  • Regular sweep chimneys that have been lined.
  • Never interrupt the air supply by blocking air vents or air bricks
  • Avoid ‘slumbering’ an appliance - unless it has been tested as safe to do so (‘Slumber mode’ is setting an appliance at a low or minimum output normally for overnight burning to be revived next day without having to relight it)