Exeter Firefighters Help at 5-Alarm Blaze

Scores of Seacoast firefighters worked to extinguish a huge blaze that struck a waterfront condominium complex in Portsmouth Friday night.

The five-alarm blaze started in a chimney, according to Portsmouth Fire Chief Christopher LeClaire. All the residents of the complex made it out safe.

Firefighters from about 20 communities—including Exeter—responded to the scene. The blaze broke out at about 6:30 p.m. and was declared under control shortly after 10 p.m.

LeClaire said the fact the fire happened in the early evening hours when most people were still awake was fortunate.

"If this fire happened at 2 a.m., it could have been much worse," he said.

Firefighters from as far away as Newburyport, Mass. and York, Maine responded to the scene. LeClaire gave credit to all.

"We have a tremendous mutual aid system," he said.

The 18-unit condo complex is located at 135 Bow St. next to the Memorial Bridge.

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