A MALVERN DIY store is playing its part in helping to promote chimney fire safety.

Staff at the B&Q store, in Spring Lane, are working with Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service by incorporating safety leaflets into their in-store fireplace displays.

Chimney fire safety is a top priority for HWFRS during the winter months. Fire crews were called to 256 chimney fires between 1 April 2010 and 31 March 2011 across the two counties, some of them causing extensive damage to homes and personal belongings.

Watch Commander Ade Taylor said: “Real fires and woodburning stoves are becoming more and more popular, and we can only see this trend continuing, especially with fuel prices at the levels they are.

“It’s important that people ensure their woodburning stoves are correctly installed and that they burn only the correct type of fuel for their particular fire.

Once fitted, chimney maintenance is essential and as with a real fire, it’s vital that chimneys are swept on a regular basis.”

He added: “Many people do not realise just how serious chimney fires can be. They can cause smoke damage throughout the house, they can spread into the roof space or to other floors of the building, and can even destroy a home completely.”