Householders are being advised to make a clean sweep of things, following two chimney fires in the Pembroke area on Sunday.

At 1.16pm Pembroke Dock firefighters attended Taskers Garden Cottage in West Williamston, Pembroke. They used a thermal imaging camera, chimney rods and a stirrup pump to extinguish the fire which started in a coal and wood burner.

Later that evening they were called to Wavell Crescent in Pembroke Dock. They used a thermal imaging camera, small gear and chimney gear to extinguish the fire.

Chimney fires often start due to poor maintenance, with a build up of soot and tar going unnoticed," said a spokesman for the fire service.

"You can greatly reduce the risk of fire by ensuring that chimneys are swept on a regular basis.

"Do not attempt to clean your chimney with a domestic vacuum cleaner, leave it to a qualified chimney sweep.

"We urge all residents to have their flues inspected regularly to prevent fire breaking out of the chimney, in a living space or in to the loft.

"We would also like people to remember to store solid fuel such as wood or coal well away from their chimney system. This fuel can heat and ignite if left too close to a solid fuel burning stove, causing a potentially serious fire."

For more information on general home fire safety or to book a free home fire check visit www.mawwfire.gov.uk.