Merrimack Wood Boiler Fire Causes $25K in Damages

MERRIMACK, NH — Merrimack Fire and Rescue teams were called to Amherst Road for a report of a structure fire this morning, according to officials. At just before 9 a.m. on March 23, 2017, firefighters learned that a shed with an oil boiler, wood burner, and fuel tank, were on fire.

Firefighters, according to Fire Marshal John Manuele, found “heavy flames and smoke showing” from the shed.

“The fire had also spread to a second adjacent wooden shed next to a large two-car garage,” Manuele reported.

Firefighters attempted to keep the fire from spreading but due to the proximity of the fire to the garage, tanks, and nearby homes, the team called in firefighters from Nashua to assist while Manchester firefighters assisted with coverage. Merrimack Police also closed the road to traffic.

When the second Merrimack crew arrived at the scene, they continued to fight the fire and declared it under control by 9 a.m., with teams working to overhaul the area and check for any fire extension, Manuele noted.

The damage included both heating units and both sheds – about $25,000 – however, the garage and homes were undamaged. One of the homes no longer has heat though.

Manuele stated that there were no injuries and the fire was deemed accidental, due to a problem with the wood boiler.

Teams were cleared at 10:13 a.m., he noted.