FIREFIGHTERS are calling for Dorset homeowners to have their chimneys swept to prevent fires.

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service 'safe and well' manager Vikki Thomas said: "A clean chimney can help prevent fires and structural damage to your property.

"Regular cleaning of your chimney or flue will eliminate the build-up of soot and clear obstructions such as bird or animal nests, leaves and debris.

“It is not enough to use a vacuum cleaner and you should make sure that your chimney or flue is inspected regularly by a qualified chimney sweep.”

Between April 2015 and March 2016, chimney fires in England accounted for more than 4,200 incidents dealt with by fire and rescue services.

Chimney sweep Emily Skeet said: “There are a number of myths that needs to be dispelled about chimney sweeping.

"I think the first images to come into people’s minds are of small, soot-covered children from Mary Poppins. Today, it’s a very different reality.”

Emily carries out up to six sweeps a day.

She said a "normal sweep" takes around an hour and a half.

“People wouldn’t think twice about getting their cars MOT’d, but home appliances often get neglected," she said.

"It might not be on the top of everyone’s to-do lists, but you really can’t afford to risk leaving these things unattended.”

For more information visit dwfire.org.uk/chimney-safety or call 0800 038 2323.