CLEVELAND, Ga. — White County firefighters from Stations 2 and 4 and the City of Cleveland responded to a chimney fire Friday morning that extended to the walls of the structure.

Upon arrival, heavy smoke was visible from the exterior of the home and flames and could also be seen coming from the top of the chimney. The occupants had safely evacuated the premises before firefighters arrived.

Firefighters entered the structure and used an extinguisher to try and put the fire out. A roof ladder was then used as the fire extended into the attic area. Once the wall surface was removed, a quick knock down occurred.

The Red Cross was called for the family but no injuries were reported. Firefighters were on scene for about 2 hours.

Fire services would like to remind everyone to have chimneys professionally inspected and cleaned at least once a year.