Gloucester Middle School Roof Catches Fire

GLOUCESTER, MA – The Gloucester Fire Department extinguished a fire on the roof of the O'Maley Innovation Middle School on Dec. 30.

Around 6 p.m., the fire department received multiple calls reporting a fire at the school on Cherry Street, according to a statement from Fire Chief Eric Smith. When firefighters arrive on the scene, they found flames coming from the roof of the school over the auditorium.

Crews determined that the fire originated in the roofing material due to a lack of clearance and insulation around the vent pipe for the emergency generator. According to the initial investigation, the heat from the generator and the high winds caused the fire.

"Cold and blustery conditions can make situations like these extremely dangerous," said Smith. "Thanks to the early detection by witnesses and the quick response from firefighters, we were able to quickly put this fire out with minimal damage to the school and no injuries."

Damages are estimated at $10,000, and no injuries were reported. Rockport, Essex, and Manchester fire departments provided coverage.

Image via Gloucester Fire Department