An early Monday morning fire in the Town of Brussels is serving as a reminder for residents to properly dispose of ashes from wood-burning stoves.

The Brussels-Union-Gardner Fire Department responded to a home on Cedar Lane shortly before 1:45 a.m. after receiving a report of a structure fire with active flames and smoke coming from the back porch.

When crews arrived, flames were stretching from the ground to the roof, and a nearby power line was down across Cedar Lane.

Using the department’s ultra-high-pressure suppression system, firefighters were able to knock down the blaze enough to begin an interior attack. Crews were able to limit damage primarily to the exterior of the home, along with a second-floor bedroom and attic space above it.

According to BUG Fire Chief Curt Vandertie, the fire originated on the back porch, where the homeowner had stored discarded ashes from a pellet stove in a plastic container. The exact cause remains under investigation.

No injuries were reported. The homeowner was able to escape safely with their cats.

BUG Fire responded with seven units and 18 firefighters, and received additional assistance from Southern Door, Nasewaupee, Sturgeon Bay, Casco, New Franken and Luxemburg fire departments, along with Door County EMS, the Door County Sheriff’s Office, Wisconsin Public Service, and the Door County 911 Communications Center.

The scene was cleared at approximately 4:30 a.m.