On March 20, the Chester County 911 Center received a report of a chimney fire in Penn Township. A neighbor spotted flames burning six feet high out of the chimney of a house on Corby Road and made the emergency call.

West Grove Fire Company volunteers received the call at 1141am and responded. Deputy 22 arrived on location confirming the report. Engine 2 arrived stretching an 1-3/4 line and fans to the front door. Ladder 22 arrived and backed up the driveway.

Chief 22 arrived an established Corby Road command. Deputy 22 assigned the Ladder crew to set up a portable ladder on the chimney in the rear of the dwelling. Ladder and Engine crews moved the basement to begin removing burning logs from the chimney fire, while also laying down protective tarps to help keep dirt and debris from damaging carpet and furniture.

The Ladder crew ascended approximately 25 feet up to remove the chimney cap, and drop special chains designed to break down creosote from the chimney pipe. Meanwhile, crews in the basement worked to break up burning debris above the flue box and remove them from the house. Crews also used thermal imaging cameras to assure no fire extension in the walls.

Crews operated for approximately one hour before clearing the scene.

Residents are advised to have all wood-burning fireplace chimneys regularly services and cleaned. This should be an annual maintenance for all fireplaces.