Fire damages Lower Valley Road home

The south-facing wall of a Lower Valley Road home was damaged in a fire Sunday night.

There were no injuries and the family was home when the fire started, said South Kalispell Fire Department Chief Jim Carl.

The blaze began in the two-story home's chimney and spread into the wall, damaging it from the first floor to the attic. The damage could cost between $15,000 and $20,000 to repair, Carl said. The interior of the house was mostly free from smoke damage.

Carl recommended homeowners clean and inspect their chimneys before using them.

The Smith Valley Fire Department, West Valley Fire Department, and Evergreen Fire Department also responded. About 25 firefighters fought the blaze.