Severe Chimney Fire in Newchapel, Stoke-on-Trent

Crews from Kidsgrove, Sandyford and Hanley were called to deal with a severe chimney fire in Newchapel last night.

The call was received at 6.55pm to report a chimney fire which had begun to spread to the ivy-covered roof of the property just off High Street in Newchapel.
Firefighters battled against the elements to gain access to the roof of the property and put the fire out.

Station Manager, Ian Read said: “The ice and cold weather made working conditions very difficult as water was quickly icing over on the equipment. Firefighters wearing harnesses used ladders to access the roof and tackle the fire using a hose reel jet.

“There was a considerable amount of thick ivy on the roof which had also ignited and was in danger of spreading to the roof internally. We had to cut away part of the roof to allow us to check for any hotspots.

“The chimney itself was very old and highlights the importance of people being aware of the age of the property they live in and making sure everything is in good working order, the same as you would with electrical appliances.”

Crews left the scene at 11.15pm last night and returned at 7.25am this morning to re-inspect. The property was given the all clear and firefighters left the scene at 7.45am.

To book a free Home Fire Risk Check contact: 0800 0241 999. For all other non emergency enquiries contact: 08451 22 11 55 or log onto: www.staffordshirefire.gov.uk or www.direct.gov.uk/firekills. In an emergency dial 999.