Kent Fire and Rescue Service in chimney fire appeal
Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) has urged residents to have their chimneys swept after nearly 40 call-outs to chimney fires in one month.
Crews were called to 38 homes from 1 December 2011 to 1 January 2012 to tackle chimney fires.
Ten fires occurred in less than a week, with three on the same day in Stockbury, Gravesend and Faversham.
Peter Campbell, from KFRS, said that rising fuel costs had meant more people were turning to log fires.
He said: "Fires can start when the chimney becomes clogged with soot and debris but can be easily prevented by making sure your chimney is swept at least once a year or more often if used frequently.
"If householders notice any smoke or are having problems starting a fire it could be a sign something is wrong."