An extra-alarm blaze at a suburban home sent flames shooting into the sky early Friday morning as firefighters worked to put it out.
The two-story residence in suburban Westchester caught fire just after 2:45 a.m. near Wild Ridge and Meadowbrook, quickly spreading as firefighters called for backup, authorities said.
At least seven different fire departments arrived at the scene, helping to keep the blaze contained to the home, which is tightly tucked between two other residences.
One person inside the home at the time was able to get himself outside uninjured, officials said. No other injuries were reported.
The cause of the fire remains unclear as of 6 a.m. Friday morning, but heavy damage appeared to be around the fireplace and chimney. Police said a resident told them he had started a fire in the fireplace about 20 minutes before firefighters were called to the scene.
“Sounds like this guy was using his frireplace," said Westchester Fire Chief Jim Adams. "It's important to get them cleaned annually, use good wood, no construction materials, keep it caged, keep combustibles clear from that spot."
