WITH the recent wintry weather, Gloucestershire has seen an increase in chimney fires.

But the county’s deputy chief fire officer Geoff Sallis said he does not want a repeat of the chimney fires that have already happened in the last week.

“With the recent cold spell of weather, we have been called out to deal with 15 chimney fires in just the last week,” he said.

“While we always see an increase in chimney fires at this time of year, getting chimneys and flues professionally swept and burning seasoned wood, can cut down on the risk.

“A smoke filled room can ruin everyone’s day and force residents out of their house into the cold when they want to be sitting in front of a nice warm fire.”

Councillor Will Windsor-Clive, cabinet member for community safety, said: “Our fire and rescue service does a good job all year round but, too often they are occupied dealing with chimney fires that could have been avoided through proper maintenance.

“Please help them to be there for you when you really need them by having your chimney swept.”