SWANZEY, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) A Swanzey residence on West Street was left uninhabitable after a hidden fire burned inside the structure early Tuesday morning, prompting a multi-department response from across the region.

Firefighters were called to 88 West St. shortly after 3:20 a.m. Tuesday after reports of smoke coming from a kitchen ceiling, according to a news release. The first arriving officer, Winchester Fire Chief Barry Kellom, observed smoke venting from the eaves and determined the fire was likely burning in the space between the first and second floors.

Crews from the Swanzey Fire Department opened the ceiling above the kitchen to reach the source of the smoke, where they found a floor joist actively burning. Firefighters quickly knocked down the fire, but a second alarm was requested to bring in additional personnel to help with suppression and overhaul.

Fire departments from Swanzey, Winchester, Keene, Troy and Richmond assisted at the scene, while additional mutual aid agencies provided support. Cheshire County Ambulance Service also responded to assist with firefighter rehabilitation.

The fire was brought under control just before 5 a.m., and all responding units cleared the scene without injuries. Although the fire was confined to a limited area, damage to the structure rendered the home temporarily unlivable. The homeowners were able to stay with relatives in the area.