Warnings following chimney fires

Homeowners are being warned to have their chimneys checked regularly following a spate of fires in Sussex.

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said there had been a sharp rise in the number of incidents caused by fires and wood burners over the past few days.

The service warned that open fires could endanger lives and urged people to have their chimneys swept and checked at least once a year.

It also urged people to use a guard and make sure their smoke alarm worked.

Fire safety officer Jackie Boyle said: "Chimney fires are one of the most common incidents we attend. Many properties have lost the roof, first floor or in some cases been completely destroyed.

"It is very important that anyone planning to light their fire gets their chimney checked and swept.

"The consequence of a chimney fire isn't just the damage caused by the fire, there's the dirt and smell from the soot and smoke, which can affect all of your personal property."