Just before 6:30 p.m., multiple 911 calls reported a large column of dark smoke rising in Dennistown Plantation. Firefighters arrived within minutes to find a home already engulfed in flames.

The family who lived there was not home at the time. Investigators believe the fire had been burning inside the house for some time before the windows gave way to the heat, allowing oxygen to rush in and turn the blaze into a raging inferno. The Maine State Fire Marshal’s Office responded that evening; the cause of the fire is not considered suspicious.

Despite the intensity of the fire, firefighters and nearby neighbors were able to save a jeep, an ATV, and a camper trailer by moving them away from the house and garage.

Battling fire is never easy, but with temperatures soaring past 90 degrees, the work was even more grueling. Clad in full turnout gear, firefighters pushed through the extreme heat, consuming large amounts of water to stay safe.

We are deeply grateful for the help we received:

• Rockwood Fire & Rescue and West Forks Volunteer Fire and Rescue provided additional firefighters and tankers to haul water to the scene.
• Maine Forest Rangers extinguished hot spots after the fire spread into the dry woods.
• Members of our ambulance service monitored firefighter health and kept everyone supplied with food and water.
• U.S. Border Patrol Agents controlled traffic on the narrow gravel road leading to the scene.
• Central Maine Power quickly disconnected electricity, thanks to Kade’s prompt response.
• Bishop’s Store generously supplied food and water.

To everyone who offered assistance in any way—thank you. Your support made a difficult day a little easier.

While the fire was intense and the conditions extreme, we are most thankful that no firefighters were injured.