FIRE chiefs are warning residents to clean out their chimneys to prevent fires.
Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service were called to put out 15 chimney fires last week.
With wintry weather continuing over the next few days, Geoff Sallis, Gloucestershire's deputy chief fire officer, is hoping there will be no repeat this week.
He said: "While we always see an increase in chimney fires at this time of year, getting chimneys and flues professionally swept and burning seasoned wood, can cut down on the risk.
"A smoke filled room can ruin everyone's day and force residents out of their house into the cold when they want to be sitting in front of a nice warm fire."
Residents have been asked to follow a few safety rules including not overloading the fire with fuel.
Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service were called to put out 15 chimney fires last week.
With wintry weather continuing over the next few days, Geoff Sallis, Gloucestershire's deputy chief fire officer, is hoping there will be no repeat this week.
He said: "While we always see an increase in chimney fires at this time of year, getting chimneys and flues professionally swept and burning seasoned wood, can cut down on the risk.
"A smoke filled room can ruin everyone's day and force residents out of their house into the cold when they want to be sitting in front of a nice warm fire."
Residents have been asked to follow a few safety rules including not overloading the fire with fuel.
