The Rindge Fire Department was called to Franklin Pierce University's Lakeview #1 building on Sawmill Road at 3:18 p.m. on April 21.

Command 1, Rescue 1, Engine 1, and Engine 2 reacted. A first-alarm assignment resulted from revised information indicating moderate smoke conditions in the basement while units were in way.

Crews discovered that an overloaded washing machine that overheated the engine and belt was the source of the smoke. No expansion or active fire was discovered, according to officials. Firefighters permitted the building to be reoccupied after ventilating it and turning off the washing machine.

The Jaffrey Fire Department, Troy Fire Department, Winchendon Fire Department, and Jaffrey Ambulance all offered mutual aid support.