Illegal Outdoor Burn Sparks 1 Acre Brush Fire

It was all hands on deck on Saturday morning when Merrimack Fire Department was called to a report of a brush fire around 4 a.m.

And it was a destructive reminder for residents that the conditions caused by days of warm and dry weather mean outdoor burning is not being permitted at this time.

Engine 1 and Forestry 1 responded to the call at 4:08 a.m. to fin a brush fire in the woods behind a home at 11 Ichabod Drive. Due to the size of the fire and the close proximity of several homes Engine 2 and Forestry 2 were also dispatched to the scene to help. With all Merrimack units committed to the fire scene, mutual aid was requested from Nashua and Amherst to cover the remainder of the town.

Crews worked to extinguish a fire that covered approximately 1 acre in an area of trees and brush surrounded by several homes. Due to the dry conditions, the fire was spreading in the direction of several nearby homes and starting spot fires throughout the area. Class A foam was used to ensure the fire was completely extinguished. The fire was declared under control at 5:18 AM and crews conducted an extensive overhaul of the area. All crews cleared the scene at 6:31 a.m. Damage was confined to the woods and there were no injuries.

Fire Marshal John Manuele, who was called to the scene to investigate, determined the fire was caused by an improperly extinguished illegal outside fire from the previous evening. Due to the current extremely dry conditions the State of New Hampshire has ordered that there be no outside fires until further notice and no fire permits are being issued.

In a press release, Capt. Manuele reminded resident it is against New Hampshire state law to kindle an outside fire without obtaining a permit from the local fire department. Failure to obtain a permit and follow all burning regulations can result in a fine of up to $2,000 and up to a year in jail. Please use care when disposing of any smoking materials.

Contact the Merrimack Fire Department at 424-3690 with any questions.