At 11:07 a.m. Sunday, July 14, Lincoln County Emergency Communications received a 911 call concerning an exterior structure fire at 42 Union St. in Boothbay Harbor. Fire crews from Boothbay Harbor, Boothbay, Edgecomb, Southport and Boothbay Region Ambulance were immediately dispatched to the scene, with initial units from Boothbay Harbor and Boothbay Fire arriving on scene at 11:10.

The fire, which started in an exterior electrical panel, quickly spread up the side corner of the house and just feet from a large propane tank.  

Very quick thinking by the homeowners who immediately and effectively used a fire extinguisher to extinguish the fire was credited by fire officials with preventing a much larger and more significant fire. 

Fire crews doused the burned section using water and foam to ensure the fire would not reignite.

Fire officials said this is a great example of the need to have readily available fire extinguishers in a home, with each occupant trained in their use.

Over 17 firefighters responded to the scene, with apparatus from Boothbay Harbor Engine 3 and Engine 5, and Boothbay Fire Engine 2, Engine 1, Tank 2 and Rescue 1. There were no injuries reported and Boothbay Region Ambulance personnel were on scene rendering support and aid to firefighters who responded the scene in high temperatures.