As the cold days approach, the risk of fires in homes increases. Over the past two years, firefighters have reported an increase in incidents caused by uncleaned chimneys and improper operation of heating appliances.
According to data from the Regional Directorate "Fire Safety and Population Protection" – Plovdiv, during the winter months the most accidents occur in the regions of Karlovo, Saedinenie and Asenovgrad. The main reason – is the use of solid fuel stoves and the poor condition of the chimney bodies.
"The reasons for these fires are two – construction and technical problems, in which there are beams in the chimneys, and the lack of regular cleaning. When burning solids, soot is released, which can ignite at high temperatures,“ explained Chief Inspector Petar Toskov, head of the “Preventive and Control Activity“ sector in Plovdiv on NOVA.
Last year alone, 74 fires were registered in the region, caused precisely by uncleaned chimneys. In order to avoid such incidents, experts recommend that chimneys be cleaned before each heating season and that their condition be regularly checked.
"We urge citizens not to use gasoline, naphtha or alcohol to light stoves - this is extremely dangerous. The responsibility for cleaning and maintaining chimneys lies entirely with the homeowners,“ added Chief Inspector Toskov.
Increase in incidents caused by uncleaned chimneys and improper operation of heating appliances
To avoid such incidents, experts recommend that chimneys be cleaned before each heating season and their condition be regularly checked
Oct 25, 2025 09:33 257
