WYRE Forest residents are being advised to check their chimneys are ready for the winter months ahead.

As part of the national Fire Kills campaign and Chimney Fire Safety Week, Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service is urging householders to ensure their chimney is safe and swept.

Station Commander Alan Haley said: “With the colder, winter months looming, people will begin to start using open fires and their chimneys again.

“In order to keep you and your family safe from fire, you need to take necessary steps such as ensuring your chimney is swept regularly and I would urge all householders to have a working smoke alarm in their home.”

Mr Haley said that latest statistics show there are approximately 7,000 chimney fires a year in England and many of them are preventable.

“All chimneys and flue-ways should be cleaned and checked during the summer months to ensure they’re free from debris and in full working order before the heating season,” he said.

“A blocked or defective chimney can cause both chimney fires and carbon monoxide poisoning so it’s very important to employ a professional qualified chimney sweep.”

For more information visit hwfire.org.uk or gov.uk/firekills