Andover Fire Department

The Waterstrat family escaped unharmed from the fire that destroyed their Flaghole Road home on February 28 despite the best efforts of firefighters from Andover, Salisbury, Franklin, Tilton-Northfield, Belmont, Webster, Wilmot, Danbury, New London, Bristol, Sutton, and Sanbornton. There will be a benefit supper at the Franklin Elks Club on April 13 at 4 PM to help the family. Photo: Meghan Barton — The Waterstrat family escaped unharmed from the fire that destroyed their Flaghole Road home on February 28 despite the best efforts of firefighters from Andover, Salisbury, Franklin, Tilton-Northfield, Belmont, Webster, Wilmot, Danbury, New London, Bristol, Sutton, and Sanbornton. There will be a benefit supper at the Franklin Elks Club on Sunday, April 13 at 4 PM to help the family. Photo: Meghan Barton

You know it has been a long cold winter when even we hardy New Englanders groan at late March snowstorms. I am so ready for spring.

Several weeks ago, your fire and emergency medical team were called to a structure fire on Flaghole Road. Thankfully, the homeowners were outside when we arrived, allowing us to concentrate on firefighting and not rescue operations.

It is suspected that this fire had a big head start and may have burned undetected for some time. The home was equipped with smoke and CO detectors. We understand that they did work, but the fire may have been hiding in walls and crawl spaces, delaying their activation.

The weather was very cold, causing fire trucks and hoses to freeze. We called for three alarms to have enough fire trucks, equipment, and manpower to fight the fire safely.

Several people from around Andover stopped by the command post to ask if we or the family needed any help. A home fire is a tragic event but brings out the best in our community.

Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of over 50 firefighters, the home was a total loss. There will be a fundraising spaghetti dinner for Steve and Cindy Waterstrat at the Elks Club in Franklin on Sunday, April 13 at 4 PM. Hope to see you there.

The emergency responders wish to thank all those who supported us on that cold day. Dunkin Donuts fare was provided by Gabi Calderaru and Andy Guptill. Coffee was provided by Jake’s Market, Naughty Nellie’s and Meghan Barton, as was food from the Franklin McDonald’s restaurant and from Sharon Lefebvre assisted by Lloyd Perreault.

We are often asked why we fight fire, provide emergency medical services, and do many tasks required of emergency responders. The answer is easy. We may be at the head of the nozzle, but our community is clearly behind us. Thanks.