FIREFIGHTERS were called to a chimney fire at a home in Church Road, Christchurch, on Thursday. The fire was caused by a build-up of soot in the chimney. Firefighters dislodged the debris using chimney rods to extinguish the blaze. A fire service spokeswo

FIREFIGHTERS were called to a chimney fire at a home in Church Road, Christchurch, on Thursday.

The fire was caused by a build-up of soot in the chimney. Firefighters dislodged the debris using chimney rods to extinguish the blaze.

A fire service spokeswoman said: "We would recommend all residents with open fires to ensure that they have their chimneys swept at least once a year, and that they inspect the brickwork of the chimney to ensure that there are no cracks or bricks missing.

"Above all, residents need to ensure that they have a working smoke alarm so that if a fire does occur, it is quickly detected and everyone is able to get out of the home safely.