Fire officials remind residents to clean fireplace chimneys after early morning blaze in North Saanich.
Fire officials say a house fire in North Saanich early this morning is a stark reminder to clean your fireplace chimney frequently.
A blaze sparked around 6 am Friday in the chimney of the ranch-style home at 9766 Ardmore Drive.
North Saanich Fire Chief John Trelford says the homeowners, a couple in their 60's, escaped without injury.
An investigation determined the chimney was completely blocked with soot and creosote.
The fire caused about $20-thousand dollars damage.
Trelford reminds homeowners that wood burning fireplaces should be cleaned and inspected at least once a year, and suggests you only burn clean wood and other combustibles suitable for fireplaces.