Chimney fires spark safety warning

As the nights draw in and the temperature falls, Rother residents are lighting up for warmth.

But as many chimneys have stood unused for several months, there is an increased risk of fire.

Battle firefighters were called to reports of a blaze at a property in Harold Terrace at 10.45am on Wednesday (August 26).

The building was being refurbished and the hearth was being used to burn a small amount of paper waste.

Meanwhile crews from Burwash Fire Station were called to an address in Station Road, Hurst Green, after a chimney caught alight just before 1.45am, also on Wednesday.

The blaze was quickly extinguished.

Crew commander Jon Baker, of Battle Fire Station, said: “We would remind people it’s a good idea to have their chimneys swept prior to using them.”

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