MILLINOCKET, Maine (Aug. 22, 2025) — Firefighters quickly contained a deck fire Friday afternoon at a home on Massachusetts Avenue, preventing flames from spreading inside the residence, officials said.

The fire was reported at 3:19 p.m. at 268 Massachusetts Ave. Millinocket Fire Chief Jonathan Cote arrived to find heavy smoke at the rear of the house and assumed command. The homeowner reported the deck was burning near a propane grill tank and a larger tank along the side of the house.

Crews from Millinocket Fire, with assistance from East Millinocket Fire, deployed an attack line and brought the fire under control. The propane tanks were secured, and firefighters used a thermal imaging camera to ensure no hidden flames remained.

Damage was limited to the deck and part of the exterior wall, officials said. No injuries to residents or firefighters were reported.

A retired Bangor firefighter, Sam Monteith, who was nearby, assisted before crews arrived and helped keep the fire contained.

The fire was traced to a campfire ring placed on the deck. Chief Cote urged residents to avoid outdoor burning during high fire danger conditions and not to use campfire rings on or near homes.