A Cumbrian fire station is advising people to get their chimneys swept before disaster strikes.

The station urged people to add this to their to-do list if they have an open fire or wood burner.

There were 2,540 chimney fires in the UK during 2022/23, with the period from January to March being the peak.

The cause of said fires can be often attributed to poor maintenance and soot buildup.

Also, burning inappropriate items that are highly pollutant can cause residue in the chimney flue.

A spokesperson from Carlisle East Fire Station said: "In order to prevent incidents such as this from developing into something much worse we advise getting your chimney swept prior to the cold nights setting in again.

"Use a reputable and professional service to have this done and thereby reduce the chance of having a potentially damaging chimney fire in your property.

"If you are using a wood stove or multi-fuel stove, make sure you use it to the manufacturer's instructions and ensure it is fitted correctly, especially the flue if it is running up an existing chimney breast."