Dec. 17, 2012 — A Susanville family avoided injury when a fire broke out in their home at 1907 Second St. about 2:04 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 15.

According to a press release from the Susanville Fire Department, smoke was coming from the roof and attic vents when the first company arrived on the scene. The occupants had already escaped the building.

Firefighters had the blaze under control within 90 minutes, and their quick actions saved personal belongings as well as Christmas presents.

Three fire engines, one ladder truck and one chief officer from the Susanville Fire Department responded as well as one Calfire engine and one fire engine and one fire chief officer from the Susan River Fire Protection District.

Additional agencies assisting at the incident included the Susanville Police Department, Lassen County Sheriff’s Office, the Lassen Municipal Utility District and the city of Susanville Water Department.

An investigation into the incident discovered the fire originated in the chimney.

The fire department reminds residents to have their woodstoves, flues, chimneys and stovepipes cleaned and inspected annually. It also recommends testing smoke alarms monthly and changing the batteries in them twice a year.