Safety advice has been issued after four people were taken to hospital due smoke coming from a blocked chimney in Wallasey.

Emergency services were called at around 10.10pm on Saturday, February 16 to Earlston Road following reports of smoke at a home.

On arrival crews discovered that the smoke was coming from a blocked chimney next door.

One person received oxygen therapy at the scene after feeling nauseous and complaining of headaches.

Four people were then taken to hospital for checks.

Firefighters tested both homes for carbon monoxide but all readings came back clear.

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service have now issued the following chimney safety advice:

Chimneys should be swept according to the type of fuel being used:

  • Smokeless fuels – at least once a year
  • Bituminous coal – at least twice a year
  • Wood – quarterly when in use
  • Oil – once a year
  • Gas – once a year

Things to consider:

  • Keep chimneys, flues and appliances clean and well maintained
  • Be careful when using open fires to keep warm. Make sure you always use a fire guard to protect against flying sparks from hot embers
  • Ensure the fire is extinguished before going to bed or leaving the house
  • Never interrupt the air supply by blocking air vents or air bricks
  • Avoid slumbering an appliance (unless it has been tested as safe to do so). Slumber mode is when an appliance is purposely set at a low or minimum output normally for overnight burning to be revived in the morning without the need for relighting.
  • Chimneys that have been lined still require regular sweeping
  • Make sure you have a carbon monoxide alarm fitted