Morrill Fire Responds to Winter Incidents, Emphasizes Home Heating Safety
Photo by Morrill Volunteer Fire DepartmentA Morrill firefighter extinguishes a vehicle fire following a December response assisting Belmont Fire on Cross Road Extension, where difficult access complicated operations.
Photo by Morrill Volunteer Fire DepartmentMorrill firefighters manage a roadway hazard after a tree fell across Higgins Hill Road involving power lines, securing the scene until utility crews arrived.
Photo by Morrill Volunteer Fire DepartmentLadders are positioned at a Morrill residence following a structure fire response, highlighting the importance of safe home heating practices during winter months.
January 4, 2026 — The Morrill Volunteer Fire Department remained busy throughout December and January, responding to a range of emergencies while continuing training and community outreach during the height of the winter season.
In December, Morrill firefighters assisted neighboring departments on several incidents, including a vehicle fire on Cross Road Extension in Belmont on Dec. 13. Due to difficult access, the response proved challenging, with Belmont Fire bringing the blaze under control before Morrill crews assisted with overhaul operations. Later in the month, Morrill personnel stood by while multiple departments operated at a structure fire in Palermo and responded to several calls involving trees down, including incidents with power lines on Higgins Hill Road and Greer Road.
Training and preparedness remained a priority, with monthly meetings focused on equipment and station maintenance, and interior firefighters participating in search-and-rescue training alongside Searsmont Fire. Morrill SCBA personnel also assisted Thorndike Fire with overhaul operations at a structure fire on Brooks Road on Dec. 31.
January continued at a steady pace. Morrill Fire investigated a false alarm on North Main Street, responded to multiple single-vehicle accidents in town and neighboring communities, and was paged for mutual aid to Belfast for a reported structure fire, though crews were canceled prior to arrival. The department also conducted classroom training covering HAZMAT identification, fire extinguisher use, bloodborne pathogens, and personal protective equipment.
As winter conditions persist, Morrill Fire is reminding residents to practice safe home heating habits. Fire officials urge residents to keep space heaters at least three feet away from combustibles, plug heaters directly into wall outlets, and turn them off when unattended. For frozen pipes, firefighters recommend using a hair dryer rather than open flames, and allowing faucets to drip while opening cabinet doors to help prevent freezing.
Through emergency responses, training, and public safety education, the Morrill Volunteer Fire Department continues its commitment to protecting the community throughout the winter months.
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