Safety: Dealing with lead paint
Older houses (pre-1960) may have lead-based paint on the woodwork. You can buy a home testing kit from DIY stores that will indicate if lead is present and suggest ways of removing it safely. It is generally safer to use a chemical stripper than a heat gun to remove lead paint. Always avoid sanding or scraping dry paint as this can spread the lead particles. Visit the FAQs on the British Coatings Federation website for more advice on the best way to deal with lead paint.

Stripping with chemicals
Chemical strippers are usually gels that will stay on vertical surfaces as the paint is softened by the chemical reaction. They are often the best way of stripping old woodwork. Be sure to open all doors and windows and don't work if the weather is very warm as the solvents will dissolve too quickly to work properly.