NOW that the colder weather is here it is time to think about lighting your fires, advises Crediton chimney sweep, Dawn Peters.

It is a good idea to check that no weeds or foliage have grown over your gas or air intake vents.

The Fire service recommend that you have your flue or chimney swept up to four times a year, once a year minimum.

Remember that gas flues need sweeping too.

It is also a good idea to check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms - then you can settle down to a safe and warm autumn.

A wood burning or multifuel stove is more than 50 per cent more efficient than an open fire.

Using an Eco fan and a stove top or flue thermometer lets you burn your fuel more efficiently, spreading the warmth and saving you money.

If you are thinking of buying a stove then there are bargains to be had this time of year and not all chimneys need to be lined.

Dawn is a HETAS trained and registered stove and liner installer.

As well as sweeping your chimney Dawn can give you advice on what size stove you need to heat your home and if you need to line your chimney.