By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
MAPLETON, Maine — Firefighters from six departments struggled late into the evening Saturday, battling sub-zero temperatures and problems with equipment as they tried to extinguish a blaze at a 372 Hughes Road farmhouse. The fire at the home, which was vacant and for sale, broke out mid-afternoon Dec. 14. The Mapleton Fire Department responded, receiving mutual aid throughout the day and well into the night from Presque Isle, Caribou, Washburn, Easton and Ashland.
WAGM-TV reported the home is owned by Nancy Turmenne.
Cold weather created problems throughout the day and night as crews worked to thaw gear, including tankers hauling water to the blaze. Several tankers froze up, causing crews to have to return to their respective firehouses to melt ice and get equipment functioning again. Firefighters also had to transport water from hydrants in Presque Isle.
Crews took turns tackling the flames, giving those who’d been out in the cold a chance to melt ice from their clothes, warm themselves and grab an occasional cup of coffee or cocoa when possible.
Firefighters were on scene from around 3 p.m. until about 10 a.m. the following day. The home was destroyed. The cause remains under investigation. No serious injuries were reported as of Saturday night but some firefighters dealt with exposure issues due to the extreme cold.
