Co Kildare's Chief Fire Officer warns call outs to chimney fires 'even though these fires are preventable'

Co Kildare's Chief Fire Officer is warning that the number of chimney fires remains high.

Chief Fire Officer for Co Kildare Celina Barrett, said: "The number of chimney fires in the county remains high even though these fires are preventable if chimneys are cleaned at least once per year and twice per year if turf or similar fuel is being used."

In 2018, Co Kildare's Fire Services reported calling out to 180 chimney fires.

Chimney fires occur when deposits of soot which have accumulated in a chimney are set alight by flames or sparks from an open fire. Most solid fuels produce some soot which will build up without regular cleaning.