FIRE chiefs are reminding householders in Teignbridge to check the state of their chimneys.

As residents may be tempted to light a fire rather than put the central heating on as temperatures start to drop, it is time to make sure chimneys are clean and ready to use.

Chimney Fire Safety Week last week was a reminder to make sure chimneys are ready for the winter months.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service backed the Fire Kills campaign by encouraging householders to ensure their chimney is safe and swept by a registered chimney sweep.

Marc House, community safety prevention manager, explained: ‘Now the cooler evenings have arrived, people will begin to start using open fires and chimneys again.

‘To keep safe from fire, steps need to be taken such as ensuring the chimney is swept regularly and I would urge all householders to have a working smoke alarm in their home.’

With the numbers of people using open fires growing, the Fire Kills campaign has provided some tips for safer chimneys.

Among them: always use a fire guard to protect against flying sparks from hot embers.

Make sure embers are properly put out before going to bed.

Keep chimneys and flues clean and well maintained.