Fire Crews offer advice to prevent chimney fires 

Firefighters have reported an increase in the number of chimney fires on the Isle of Man as the cold weather sets in. 

The Fire and Rescue Service is now offering advice to help prevent the blazes.

According to the service an established chimney fire can cause serious structural damage to a property and in the majority of cases are easily avoidable. 

Regular cleaning and maintenance will help avoid a build up of soot and clear out any obstructions like bird's nests or debris.

People are being urged not to use flammable liquids to light a fire such as petrol or paraffin, avoid burning plastics, always use a guard to protect from falling embers and never leave the fire unattended.