Are You Fire-Ready? What to Check Before the Cold Sets In

As the evenings get darker and the temperature drops, it is tempting to light the fire and settle in. But before you reach for the matches or firelighters, it is worth taking a moment to make sure everything is safe and in good working order. A few checks now can help you avoid problems later in the season, whether you use a log burner, open fire, or multi-fuel stove.

In this guide, we provide a straightforward checklist to help get your home fire-ready before the cold really sets in.

1. Book a Chimney Sweep

If you use your fire regularly, soot, tar and debris can build up inside the flue. Left unchecked, this increases the risk of chimney fires and poor ventilation.

• Aim to have your chimney swept at least once a year, ideally before winter
• Make sure the sweep is qualified and experienced with your type of fireplace
• Regular cleaning also helps your fire burn more efficiently

It is an easy job to put off, but it can make all the difference to safety and performance.

2. Check Your Stove or Fireplace

Whether you have a wood burner or a traditional open fire, give it a proper once-over before lighting it for the season.

• Look for signs of damage such as cracks, worn seals, or loose bricks
• Check that the door shuts properly on a stove and that vents are not blocked
• Clean out any leftover ash or debris from last year

If anything doesn’t look right, it is worth getting it looked at by a professional.

3. Test Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are essential, especially when you're heating your home with solid fu el. It only takes a minute to test them, and it could save lives.

• Press the test button on all alarms to check they are working
• Replace batteries if needed
•  If your alarms are more than ten years old, they should be replaced

Consider fitting a carbon monoxide detector near any stove or fireplace if you don’t already have one.

4. Organise Your Fuel Supply

It is not ideal to run out of firewood on a cold night. Always ensure that you have got enough fuel to see you through the colder weeks.

•  Stock up on seasoned logs or smokeless fuel depending on your system
•  Store wood in a dry, well-ventilated place to keep it ready for use
•  Avoid burning wet or treated wood as it can damage your flue and produce more smoke

Planning ahead helps you stay warm without the stress of last-minute shortages.