Fire officials are reminding residents to use caution when using fireplaces after a fire broke out at a house in McHenry, with the residents and their dogs safely escaping.
The McHenry Township Fire Protection District responded around 7:33 p.m. Monday to the 3000 block of Mourine Lane in McHenry for a report of a structure fire.
McHenry Township Fire Protection District Battalion Chief Chris Kozel said firefighters arrived within four minutes and found smoke coming from the attic of a single-story family home.
The occupants and two dogs had safely evacuated after calling 911 to report the incident.
Firefighters brought the fire under control in 10 minutes and conducted a search of the residence to ensure no one else was still inside, Kozel said.
The fire caused damage to the wooden trusses surrounding the chimney flue. Water damage also was sustained due to extinguishment efforts.
No injuries were reported to any residents or firefighters, Kozel said.
Kozel said the fire district reminds residents to use caution when using wood-burning fireplaces and always ensure fires are completely extinguished before going to bed in the evening.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the McHenry Township Fire Protection District.