Chimney fire started by burning papers

MOSES LAKE - Burning papers led to a minor chimney fire at a Moses Lake home on Road D.8 Northeast Saturday afternoon.

Lakeview Elementary school teacher Sally Nicholas said she was disposing of some old personal bills and documents by burning them in her fireplace.

She said the fire was under control and she went outside to wash her car.

She didn't know the fire was out of control until her husband came home.

"He drove in the driveway and said, 'call 9-1-1,'" Nicholas said.

She called 9-1-1 and within a few minutes Grant County Fire District No. 5 firefighters responded to the scene.

"They were really quick," she said.

Firefighters climbed on top of the roof near the chimney and began dismantling a portion of shingles above an attic space with axes to prevent the fire from spreading.

Firefighters remained at the scene after the fire was extinguished to ensure there was no potential the fire could restart.

"If you are burning bills, stay downstairs and watch your fire," Nicholas laughed.