CONCERNS about smoke billowing from a chimney in an unusual way led to a concerning discovery by Bridport firefighters today.
Two fire crews from Bridport attended a property in North Bowood Lane after being called to the scene at around 11.53am today (Friday April 1.)
According to the brigade, smoke could be seen issuing from loose stonework around the chimney area.
When crews investigated they discovered a fire in the chimney lining - and quickly set about extinguishing the blaze.
A spokesperson for Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed it has now been extinguished by firefighters using a ladder, a hose reel jet and a chimney kit.
The fire service has the following advice for anyone who has a working chimney at home:
*Don't use flammable liquids such as petrol or paraffin to light your fire
*Don't burn excessive amounts of paper or rubbish
*Don't overload the fire with fuel
*Take advice from your chimney sweep on how often they should visit - the type of fire you have can impact on this
*Always get the chimney swept before the colder weather sets in
*Make sure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms at home and test them regularly
"Regular sweeping and servicing schedules are essential. You should have your chimney swept at least twice a year when burning wood or bituminous house coal and at least once a year when burning smokeless fuels," a spokesperson said.
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