Staff reports

A house fire that started in the chimney box and extended into the attic damaged a home in the 22300 block of 117th Avenue Southeast on Kent’s East Hill late Monday morning, Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority reported.

The owner of the house, while burning some papers in the fireplace, heard noise in the wall by her chimney and went outside to find flames coming from where the chimney box connects to the roof. She then called 911 and waited outside for the fire department to arrive. The fire was reported at 11:32 a.m.

Puget Sound Fire Engine 77 quickly applied water from the outside, knocking the flames down before entering the home. Fire was discovered in the wall and attic next to the fireplace, which was also extinguished.

No one was hurt in the fire.

In addition to Puget Sound Fire units, Renton Regional Fire Authority, King County Medic One, and Rehab 1 responded and aided in putting the fire out.

American Red Cross and Washington Water Damage provided immediate help to the homeowners.

Puget Sound Fire Investigators ruled the cause of the fire to be accidental due to the high heat igniting debris in the chimney box.

Puget Sound Fire would like to remind homeowners that if you are using your fireplace to have an annual inspection. Also, a reminder that if your fireplace has not been in use for an extended period of time have it checked for debris and small animal homes before lighting a fire.