Freeman said the fire likely started when creosote in the flue system ignited. He said it was similar to fires from creosote build-up in chimneys in homes.
The 8:47 a.m. fire was contained to the flue and was controlled by 9:40 a.m., Freeman said. Guests at the hotel at 405 First St. West were evacuated as a precaution for less than an hour, Freeman said.
