24/05/2026
Wood fire safety - is your chimney or flue clean? 🔥
Most of us are probably using wood-fueled heaters of one type or another to heat our homes in Winter. Over time, soot and creosote can build up on the inside walls. This is exacerbated by burning softwood or green firewood.
This build-up in the chimney is highly flammable. If it catches it will burn extremely hot and can compromise the integrity of the flue or chimney, and can start a fire in your ceiling. Symptoms will include a loud roaring noise, flue glowing red hot, and flames erupting from the top like a jet.
If this happens to you
* Shut down all vents and dampers on the heater to starve it of oxygen. This may not extinguish it, but it will help slow it down until help arrives
* Call 000 immediately.
* If safe to do so, move anything flammable or valuable away from the fireplace as the process of extinguishing the fire is likely to be rather messy
* Everyone should evacuate the building and remain at a safe distance.
* Do not open the firebox door, and do not throw water into the firebox!
Burning only dry, seasoned hardwood can help prevent flue fires
Do not leave clothes (including wet washing) draped close to the heater – they should be at least 1m away.
And a reminder to store cats at a safe distance from the fireplace 😺