LANCASHIRE Fire and Rescue Service is supporting the national chimney fire safety campaign in a bid to raise awareness of the subject ahead of winter.

Over recent years there has been a steady increase in these types of incidents, with the resurgence of solid fuel-burning fires. This week staff will be heading out and promoting chimney safety messages during their home fire safety visits to anyone with a log burner or solid fuel fire.

A spokesperson said: “Chimney fires can be devastating but are so easily preventable. These fires are caused by a build-up of creosote and soot in the lining of the chimney, which can be ignited by very hot flames extending up into the flue.

“To avoid this build up you need to get your chimneys swept regularly.”