Fire is not a regular occurrence in thatched properties. If it were, the built heritage of this island would be poorer by some 40,000 properties. It is, however, an issue that owners and potential owners of such homes disregard at their peril. Statistically, Home Office figures seem to indicate a much higher ratio of fires in conventional houses compared to those with thatched roofs. However, because these include high-density urban housing and multi-tenanted properties they are not representative of the true picture. Of the estimated 50,000 thatched buildings in the UK, Fire Service statistics indicate that between 60 and 70 will suffer serious fire damage in any year. Of these fires, more than 85% will be directly linked to the burning of wood or fossil fuels. It should always be remembered that thatch is an organic material, subject to different behavioural patterns depending on its surroundings and treatment. It has a finite life span, measured in tens rather than hundreds of years, and above all it is combustible. Good housekeeping and a constant awareness of potential danger are essential if the unthinkable is to be avoided.