Don't forget to clean your chimney for Santa! - Kildare Fire Service warns

Kildare Fire Service has warned householders about winter fire hazards in the home.

An open fire used during the winter months should be swept at least twice a year.

once before you start to light up again for the winter and again after Christmas in January and February.

And of course Santa needs a clean chimney to climb down on Christmas Eve.

The Fire Service also warned people not to pile damp clothes onto heaters or place them too near to open fires.

In relation to electric blankets, check for damage, scorching, fraying and if in doubt, throw it out.