DORSET and Wiltshire was the second worst fire service area for chimney fires over a 12-month period, according to new data.
As part of Chimney Fire Safety Week, which runs until September 13, environmental non-profit HETAS released figures showing the areas with the most callouts for chimney blazes in 2025/26.
Though most areas showed a large decrease in fires over recent years, the Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service area ranked second in the table, with 89 chimney fires reported.
It ranked below only neighbouring Devon and Somerset, which saw 135 blazes reported.
However, both showed a falling number of incidents, with Dorset and Wiltshire falling by 21% compared to last year, and a massive 83% when compared to 2010/11.
Dorset and Wiltshire second worst fire service area for chimney fires. Picture: HETAS
Responding to the data, DWFRS said: “We’re glad to see that chimney fires are steadily reducing in our area, but being the second highest area for these types of fires, we want to make sure that this Chimney Fire Safety Week, we’re encouraging as many people as possible to book a chimney sweep.
“For more safety tips on what you can do to help avoid a chimney fire, visit our website – www.dwfire.org.uk/chimney-safety.”
The week aims to raise awareness of the risks of chimney fires among residents, and to help households guard against them.
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Chimney fire incidents decrease in 2025/26
Overall, HETAS data showed chimney fire incidents in England decreased by 18.34% in 2025/26 compared to the previous year, and account for approximately 0.98% of total fires recorded in England for this period.
But the campaign urged people to be aware of the risks and to take steps to guard against any potential fire safety issues.
“Chimney Fire Safety Week aims to raise awareness of the dangers of chimney fires and the common causes, encouraging stove owners to take action,” a spokesperson said.
“This action could be safe operation, appropriate fuel selection, and regular appliance and chimney maintenance.
“The campaign focuses on the importance of using a registered professional for chimney sweeping and appliance maintenance, the use of high-quality fuels, and keeping your home warm through responsible burning habits.”
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