ree and Wires Down Spark Fire in Thornton; Multiple Agencies Respond

Photo by Campton-Thornton Fire Rescue

Photo by Campton-Thornton Fire Rescue

Photo by Campton-Thornton Fire Rescue

Photo by Campton-Thornton Fire Rescue

Photo by Campton-Thornton Fire Rescue

Photo by Campton-Thornton Fire Rescue

Photo by Campton-Thornton Fire Rescue
On the morning of Friday, August 1, 2025, at approximately 8:30 a.m., Campton-Thornton Fire Rescue was dispatched to U.S. Route 3, across from Blake Mountain Road in Thornton, for a report of a tree and wires down with fire involvement. Engine 3 and Car 1 responded immediately.
Upon arrival, crews discovered a large tree had come down across the nearby railroad tracks, bringing a live power line to the ground. The energized wire ignited a small fire in the surrounding brush. NH Electric Cooperative was notified and responded to secure the hazard.
While crews were engaged at the scene, a second emergency call for a fire alarm activation was received. Off-duty and call division personnel responded with Engine 4, successfully handling the alarm before joining operations at the Route 3 fire. (This is why crews were seen working in structural gear rather than forestry gear.)
Once the line was de-energized, firefighters were cleared to begin suppression. Due to the fire burning deep into the ground, extensive mop-up efforts were required, making the operation both difficult and time-consuming. NH Forest and Lands Ranger 12 and Patrol 104 responded to provide additional support.
During this time, a separate medical emergency in Campton was covered by Plymouth Fire-Rescue, as CTFD resources remained committed to the fire incident.
After approximately two hours of suppression and overhaul, the scene was declared under control, and units returned to quarters. Campton-Thornton Fire Rescue extends its thanks to the Thornton Police Department, NH Electric Cooperative, NH Forest and Lands, and Plymouth Fire-Rescue for their assistance during this busy morning.