07/27/2026
Great stop by initial companies this afternoon- the fire was contained to one garage bay with rapid access using a saw and quick extinguishment - thanks to our mutual aid partners for responding to two additonal simultaneous emergencies and covering the town while crews were on scene of the fire
Gilford and Laconia companies were toned to a building fire at 19 Carriage Road
in Gilford. Companies were advised while responding of a fire in a large, detached
garage. Upon arrival, units on scene reported smoke showing from a garage bay in a 2
story building. A first alarm was requested. The lone occupant, the owner, was
attempting to extinguish the fire with a garden hose. Two hose lines were stretched –
one to extinguish the fire and one as a precaution in case there was extension to the
2nd floor. The fire involved the contents of one garage stall. There was minor smoke
damage throughout the rest of the building. The unit was overhauled and materials
were removed and fully extinguished. The fire was confined to the 1 garage stall.
Gilford companies were assisted by Laconia and Gilford Police at the
scene. Tilton-Northfield and Meredith EMS handled 2 simultaneous incidents while
Gilford companies were at the fire. Sanbornton and Franklin provided coverage at the
Gilford fire station. The fire originated on the exterior of the building and started after
the owner had been using a torch to burn weeds in the asphalt.
Chief Stephen Carrier stated, “Conditions are actually very dry right now. It is
extremely easy to ignite combustibles and then that fire can spread rapidly. The owner
did a great job of keeping the fire confined in the garage by not opening the overhead
door.” He went on to say, “The guys did a great job accessing the fire and knocking it
down quickly.”
An Engine, a Tanker, a Utility, and 2 Command Vehicles responded to the scene
from Gilford along with an Engine and Ladder from Laconia. Tilton-Northfield
responded to a fire alarm activation and Meredith EMS to a medical incident; both
additional simultaneous Gilford incidents. Sanbornton and Franklin covered the Gilford
Fire Station. The garage unit will need to be repaired, but no other structures or
vehicles were damaged.
There was no damage to any other buildings or vehicles. Damage is estimated
to be at least $5,000.
Further information or clarification may be available during business hours by
contacting the Gilford Fire-Rescue
