Cars covered in Snow - Pic: Stuart Brown

With temperatures set to remain below freezing this week, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging people to consider fire safety when trying to keep warm.

Already this year the Service has attended over 10 chimney fires which were caused by wood burners or unattended open fires.

Head of Risk Reduction, Glynn Luznyj said:

“We urge people to take extra care when using portable heaters and open or gas fires by not getting too close to them and by keeping flammable materials, such as clothes and curtains, a safe distance away. Never leave fires unattended and turn off appliances and extinguish fires before going to bed or going out.

“People who have open fires or wood burners should ensure that any wood being used as fuel is dry, as damp wood often spits when it is set alight. The tragic fire in Derbyshire last year, in which four children died, was caused by damp wood which spitted and ignited, as there was no fire guard in place.

“Residents are also encouraged to fit carbon monoxide alarms in their homes and test them on a regular basis as you would your smoke alarms. If your carbon monoxide alarm activates, our advice is to turn off any gas appliances straight away and open as many doors and windows as possible.

“If anyone experiences any symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, such as headaches, dizziness or vomiting, call us and move to a location that has fresh air as soon as possible. We have specialist gas monitors which give a reading on any carbon monoxide presence and can then advise you what to do next.

“We would also ask members of the community to check on vulnerable friends, neighbours and members of family to make sure that they are as safe as possible.

“If anyone would like further advice on fire safety in the home, we can provide a free Home Fire Risk Check. Simply call 0800 0241 999 and we will arrange to come out to your property at a mutually convenient time and date.”