Atkinson Structure Fire (March 30, 2023) Update

ATKINSON — On March 30, 2023, at 01:54 NH 911 and Plaistow Dispatch received a call from an occupant reporting the back of the house was engulfed in flames. The caller also reported that all occupants were out of the building at that time.

54 Academy Ave is a single-family one-story ranch style home in an area of town without hydrants for water supply. At the time of the incident, the residence was occupied by at least 2 adults.

While responding, Plaistow Dispatch updated 57-C4 Deputy Murphy that Police were on scene confirming fire in the back of the residence. Deputy Murphy then requested a working fire assignment prior to his arrival on scene.

At 02:00 Deputy Murphy arrived on scene and reported heavy Fire Conditions coming from the rear of the residence and requested a 2nd Alarm through Plaistow Dispatch.

Initial conditions included a well-developed fire in a four-season porch that extended into the kitchen and attic area.

Atkinson Engine 3 crew advanced a hose line in the front door while Plaistow Engine 8 advanced a second line to the rear of the residence where the crews were able to knock the bulk of the fire down quickly.

Atkinson Fire was assisted on scene by the second alarm crews that included Plaistow, Salem, Hampstead, Derry, Sandown, Newton, Danville, and Trinity Ambulance. The station was covered by Chester and Haverhill Fire Departments.

The Atkinson Police Department assisted with traffic and scene control. Unitil was requested to shut down power to the residence and Red Cross was called to assist the occupants with short-term needs.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the Atkinson Fire Prevention Division. At the time of the press release the fire was not considered to be suspicious.

The two occupants were evaluated by Trinity Ambulance but did not need transport. Working smoke detectors are credited with early detection and the escape of the residents occupying the structure at the time of the fire.