WALDEN, VT - On March 30th at 1:50 A.M., Walden Fire Department, along with Cabot Fire Department, were toned for a reported fire on the second floor of a three-story building at 805 Coles Pond Road, with animals reportedly on the second and third floors.

Walden's second assistant chief arrived on scene to find heavy fire on the second floor and fire also starting on the third floor. He immediately called for additional help, bringing in Hardwick, Greensboro, Danville, Peacham, Craftsbury, and Marshfield.

Walden's engine arrived on scene 16 minutes after the first tone to find a fully involved structure, pickup truck, and (two) 250-pound propane tanks off-gassing right up against the building. A sharp wind added to the issues.

Two hand lines were deployed, but due to the lack of water, the deck gun was not able to be used immediately. Tankers hauled water three miles to the fire scene, but due to the very rough dirt roads in mud season, it took almost 15 minutes to get between water supply and the scene.

The fire was finally placed under control by 4:00 A.M. All units and personnel were back in quarters at 10:00 A.M. In the end, the structure, two vehicles, a motorcycle, lawnmower and tent garage were destroyed.