Nashua Fire: 2 Homeless, Pellet Stove Vent Blamed

NASHUA, NH -- A pellet stove caused a fire at a Nashua residence Saturday after it ignited a pile of leaves built up around an exterior vent, according to fire officials. The fire broke out on Hastings Lane at about 10:30 a.m. and it spread to the eaves of the home. Two occupants escaped uninjured.

"The cause of the fire was related to a pellet stove igniting a buildup of dry leaves around the stove vent," Nashua Deputy Fire Chief Karl Gerhard said in a statement. "This in turn ignited two shrubs and extended to the home’s (eaves)."

The fire damaged the home's electrical wiring, rendering it uninhabitable, according to Gerhard. The residents were displaced until repairs can be made.

Gerhard added a public service announcement: "Make sure all heating devices are properly vented and any debris/growth is kept clear of the vent area."

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