Fire and Rescue Victoria (FRV) and the Country Fire Authority (CFA) are urging residents to keep themselves safe by checking and maintaining their fireplaces, chimneys, fireboxes and flues.
In a statement, FRV said Victorian fire services saw a large number of chimney fires, from both fireplaces and wood heaters, every year when the weather cooled.
It said the CFA and FRV responded to 192 chimney fires last year, more than half of which (104) occurred during the winter months.
Chief Officer of the CFA, Jason Heffernan urged Victorian households to have chimneys professionally cleaned annually to avoid the build-up of creosote, a highly flammable black tar-like residue, that could clog chimneys.
“Creosote is not only caused by general use, but it can also build up quicker if you are using incorrect fuels, such as green wood or treated timbers, so make sure you only burn dry, clean wood to reduce the risk of fire starting from a fireplace or wood heater,” CO Heffernan said.
“Chimney fires can quickly turn into house fires so the few minutes spent now could be one of the most important fire safety actions you take this season,” he said.
CO Heffernan said residents could use a torch to check for creosote build-up or obstructions, and urged people to always extinguish their fire before going to bed or leaving the house.
Fire Rescue Commissioner Ken Block said it was also important to ensure gas heaters were used safely and correctly.
Commissioner Block said people should have gas heaters inspected and serviced by a qualified technician every two years to avoid a fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.
“The colder months are some of the riskiest times of the year for fires in the home, and most of these fires can be prevented,” Commissioner Block said.
“Taking a few moments to check your heaters and fireplaces before winter sets in could mean the difference between life and death for your family,” he said.
Commissioner Block said interconnected smoke alarms in all bedrooms and living areas could provide vital seconds which could allow people to escape if a fire occurred.
Further information on home fire safety and reducing the risk of chimney fires can be accessed on FRV’s website at this PS News link.
