The heating season has ended, but now is the perfect time to prepare stoves, heaters, and chimneys for the coming winter. In 2025, firefighters recorded more chimney and heater fires than in previous years. The most frequent causes were ignited soot, technical defects, or errors during installation and operation of the heating appliances.
There have been the most chimney fires in the last four years
According to the Fire and Rescue Service of the Czech Republic, firefighters dealt with almost 1,300 chimney fires in 2025. This is the highest number in the last four years. Damage reached approximately 114 million Czech crowns and the fires injured nearly 40 people.
Soot most often burned in the flue. A clogged or poorly maintained chimney is one of the risks that people often underestimate. However, regular cleaning and inspection can prevent many dangerous situations.
The heaters themselves also burned more often
Firefighters also warned about the increase in fires caused by heaters themselves. They recorded the highest number of fires in this category in decades. One person died during these incidents, and damages approached 100 million crowns.
Fires involving heating appliances are often caused by incorrect placement, improper installation, technical defects, or failure to maintain safe distances from flammable materials. Therefore, safe heating doesn't begin only when someone throws in the first log. It starts with the right selection, professional installation, and regular maintenance.
The end of the heating season is the perfect time for inspection.
After the heating season ends, it makes sense to check the condition of the stove, flue pipe, and chimney. Owners of heating appliances should follow the manufacturer's instructions, use the appliance only for its intended purpose, and not underestimate regular cleaning of the flue.
Chimney inspection must be ensured, for example, before putting a new flue into operation, when changing the type of fuel, after chimney modifications, after a chimney fire, or if damage is suspected.
Dry wood helps with safety and cleaner burning.
Fuel also plays an important role. Only fuel that the appliance manufacturer has specified should be used in stoves. People should not burn trash, plastic, painted wood, or other unsuitable materials in them.
Damp wood also increases the risk. It burns poorly, reduces heating efficiency, and causes more soot buildup in the chimney. Dry firewood therefore not only contributes to more economical and cleaner operation, but also to safer heating.
Safe heating relies on simple rules
Modern wood-burning stoves can be an efficient, economical, and environmentally friendly source of heat. However, for them to serve safely, they require proper handling. The basics include professional installation, adequate clearance from flammable materials, regular chimney inspections, and the use of high-quality dry firewood.
The end of the heating season is therefore not a reason to forget about your stove. On the contrary, it is the best time to prepare everything so that the next winter begins safely and without unnecessary risks.
