A chimney fire in Sandy Hook this week forced a homeowner outdoors for a short time, but did not create the need for relocation. The fire reiterated the need to have chimneys cleaned every year.

Sandy Hook, Botsford, and Hook & Ladder were dispatched shortly after 7 pm, Monday, December 7, for the reported fire at 10 Johnny Appleseed Drive. The homeowner was able to get out of the house before firefighters arrived. The fire was nearly out before firefighters arrived.

Approximately 15 Sandy Hook firefighters responded to the scene.

Botsford and Hook & Ladder members were returned to their stations before arriving at the scene.

Sandy Hook First Assistant Chief Ryan Clark was officer in command for Monday’s incident. He told The Newtown Bee this week that the fire was caused by a creosote buildup in the chimney of the home.

According to the Newtown Assessor’s Database, 10 Johnny Appleseed Drive is a ranch-style construction built in 1967 with 1,040 square feet of living space.

Tuesday evening, according to Clark, firefighters first extinguished a fire that was still burning in a wood stove.

“We removed the wood and ashes from the stove so that we could go up on the roof,” he said. “Then we were able to take apart the chimney and got at the fire that still needed to be extinguished.”

Firefighters were able to clear from the property in less than an hour. There was no damage to the interior of the home.

Clark offered a reminder to all homeowners.

“It’s important to get chimneys cleaned annually,” he said. “You don’t want to have stuff build up inside them.”