Twice on October 31, 2016, Thompson (CT) firefighters responded to fires at the same tractor business located on Route 12 near the Thompson/Putnam town line. The first fire was called in to Quinebaug Valley Emergency Communications (QVEC). All five Thompson fire companies responded and upon arrival found a smoke condition and fire in the ceiling above an office area. The fire did extend into a storage area above the ceiling, but firefighters quickly brought this fire under control with minimal damage to the structure. Thompson firefighters were assisted at the scene by Putnam and Attawaugan. Later that evening, QVEC dispatchers began fielding calls for a second fire at the location, this time with heavy smoke and fire showing. Upon arrival, Thompson firefighters were faced with a concentrated fire in the office area of the building, as well as high heat and heavy smoke throughout the upper levels of the structure. Mutual aid was requested from Putnam, Attawaugan, East Putnam and Woodstock. The building was opened up while handlines were stretched to control the fire. Firefighters had to cut the metal sheathing of the exterior to chase down hidden fire. This fire was brought under control about two hours later. No injuries were reported from either fire.
– Fire News photo by Alan Brackett
