Man Burned In 2-Alarm Quick Spreading Goffstown Fire

GOFFSTOWN, NH — Goffstown Fire and several surrounding towns responded to a reported structure fire on Tirrell Hill Rd Friday at 3:15 pm.

An off-duty firefighter arrived at the scene before any apparatus and reported heavy fire engulfing a house, and sounds of explosions.

As fire crews arrived a man suffering from burns was located and brought to a waiting ambulance for medical attention. The man in his seventies was treated by EMS and transported to a local hospital.

Fire crews had heavy fire in the house, and several structures adjacent to the house. Many of the structures contained fuel and combustible items. Firefighters were challenged with water supply, there are no active hydrants in the area. Fire crews quickly used the water in the tanks of the apparatus and more water had to be shuttled to the scene.

A second alarm was called for several additional engines and tankers to respond mutual aid and set up water supply.

Firefighters and EMTs from Bedford, Concord, Dunbarton, Hooksett, Londonderry, Manchester and other communities responded to the scene and to provide station coverage.

The house had a metal roof with several layers of shingles under it, this made ventilation difficult and held fire and heat inside the structure. Fire crews used saws to cut through the roof to allow ventilation.

Firefighters worked with family who arrived at the scene to remove important items from the burning house. Several firearms which were stored in the house were safely removed and secured.

The fire was brought under control at 5:38 pm according to Goffstown Fire Chief Brian Allard. An excavator was brought to the scene to assist in removing parts of the structure so the fire could be fully extinguished.

Chief Allard said that he did not have any additional information on the man's injuries but did not believe they were life-threatening. No firefighters were injured while battling the fire.

©Jeffrey Hastings www.frameofmindphoto.com/news