A SPATE of chimney fires across the county has led Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service to ask people to take extra care when lighting fires in the home.

A thatch fire at Fishleigh near Hatherleigh and the devastating blaze that destroyed five cottages in Crediton were among 22 fires across Devon in the space of a week this month. There were a further 17 chimney fires in Somserset.

Fire investigation officer Mike Burroughs said: 'With the recent cold snap, people have naturally been warming up their homes by lighting the traditional home fire, but without proper maintenance a chimney can become dangerous.

'To keep yourself and your family safe from fire you should take care to have your chimney swept regularly, depending upon what fuel you burn.

'If the worst should happen, a smoke alarm can give you the extra time you need to escape in a house fire. Make sure you test yours regularly.'

Chimneys need to be dirt-free to allow the free passage of dangerous combustion gasses, so regular cleaning will remove soot and creosote, and help prevent dangerous chimney fires.

Oil, gas and smokeless coal users need their chimney swept annually, with bituminous coal users needing theirs swept biannually, and wood burners up to four times a year.