VICTORIAN fire services have recommended homeowners prioritise cleaning their chimneys this winter following 70 residential chimney fires last year.

In the last five years, CFA also responded to more than 530 residential chimney fires.

CFA deputy chief officer, Adrian Gutsche said before warming their homes this winter, Victorians should simply use a torch to regularly check for soot build-up or obstructions to reduce the risk of a fire starting from the fireplace or wood heater.

“Chimneys and flues should be cleaned annually,” he said.

“Always use a fire screen in front of an open fire and keep wood and other combustibles at least one metre from fire.

“Our latest statistics show most fatal fires start in sleeping and living areas, so for your family’s best protection, smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, living and hallway area.”

Casterton chimney sweep (or chimneyologist as he calls himself), Paul Murphy said “There’s a possibility of your house getting burnt if you don’t get your chimney checked and cleaned regularly – it’s as simple as that.

“I’ve been doing this job for 30 years and I’ve done hundreds and hundreds of chimneys,” he said.

“If you don’t clean your chimney, you can smoke out and you won’t be kept warm..

Fire Rescue Victoria community safety deputy commissioner, Joshua Fischer said maintaining your fireplace was essential for home safety.

“Victorians who have a fireplace at home are making use of them a lot at this time of year,” he said.

“Proper maintenance ensures they don’t pose a risk to your family home.

“Extinguish your fire and any open flames, such as candles, before going to bed or leaving the house.

“Check that the fire embers are cold before disposing of them.”

Victorians are reminded that long-life battery or interconnected smoke alarms located in all bedrooms, hallways and living areas of the home can save lives for as little as $20.

Chimney tips

Over time there could be a build-up of creosote, a black tar-like residue, which is highly flammable and could clog up chimneys.

Creosote is not only caused by general use, but it can also build up quicker if you are using incorrect fuels, such as green wood or treated timbers.

Chimneys and flues should be cleaned annually.

Always use a fire screen in front of an open fire and keep wood and other combustibles at least one metre from fire.

To reduce the risk of a fire starting from your fireplace or wood heater, you should: Use a torch to check for creosote build-up or obstructions, have your chimney professionally cleaned annually, only burn dry, clean wood and extinguish your fire before going to bed or leaving the house.

Candles and open flames

Open flames should always be supervised.

Keep lighters, matches, candles, incense and oil burners out of reach of children.

Consider an alternative to an open flame candle, such as a battery-operated candle.

Smoking in bed is very dangerous – never smoke in bed.