Fire displaces family in Laurel County, crews urge chimney safety after blaze spreads to roof

LAUREL COUNTY, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — A house fire in East Bernstadt is serving as a reminder from firefighters about the importance of keeping fireplaces and chimneys clean and well-maintained.

According to East Bernstadt Fire and Rescue, crews responded to a fire Wednesday that forced multiple adults and several pets out of their home. Officials say the fire started in the fireplace and quickly spread into the roof of the house.

Firefighters were able to put out the flames before the situation became even worse. No injuries were reported, but crews say the home suffered significant damage.

In the aftermath, the fire department is urging residents to regularly clean and inspect fireplaces and chimneys, especially during cold weather when they’re used more often.

Fire officials say built-up debris and creosote can easily ignite and lead to fast-moving fires like this one.