MANCHESTER, NH – Manchester Fire dispatch received multiple calls for a structure fire at 66 Nashua Street Tuesday at 11:57 a.m.
Resources: Engines 2,3,4,5,6,7,9,10 and 11, Trucks 1, 6 and 7, Rescue 1, Squad 1, Car 1, ALS 2, 5 and 16, EMS 1, FST 1, K1 and 2, Chief of Dept. along with Assistant Chief’s 02 and 03
Smoke could be seen billowing in the sky from almost all parts of the city. Car 1 arrived and reported heavy fire from the A side (front) of building, along with multiple vehicles in the driveways on both sides that were also involved in fire.
Firefighters were battling the intense blaze and also had to contend with the extreme heat from the weather. A cooling station and city bus were brought in to provide some relief. Photos/Jeffrey Hastings
As companies arrived there was a report of an occupant unaccounted for and possibly still in the building. Crews made their way to the rear entrance to perform a search while hose lines were advanced and fire knocked down in the front. Owner of the building arrived and reported that no one was home at the time of the fire, but there were two dogs inside. Search crews were able to locate both dogs and remove them from the building. Resuscitation efforts were performed on one dog who unfortunately succumbed to smoke inhalation.
The second dog was transported to a nearby veterinarian clinic. Due to weather conditions and extreme heat, additional resources were requested bringing a second alarm to the scene. One firefighter who was working on the second floor showed signs of heat exhaustion and needed to exit the structure. The individual was assessed by AMR on scene for dehydration.
The fire was brought under control in just under an hour, but crews remained on scene chasing hot spots and overhauling the structure for an additional length of time. A city bus from MTA with air conditioning was requested and responded to the scene to assist firefighters with rehab. Bottles of water were donated by the nearby 7-11 convenience store to help overheated members of the Manchester Fire Department.
Extreme heat as temperatures neared 90 degrees, Electrical service to the building had burned through and the energized wire fell to the ground, creating a hazard for firefighters to maneuver around safely. Nashua St. is narrow, making apparatus placement a challenge.
Fire Cause: Under investigation
Estimated Dollar Loss: $250,000
