08/23/2026
On August 20th at 12:35 pm Gilmanton Fire was dispatched to fire alarm activation at the IW Market at 1818 NH RT 140. 9E3 with Capt. Cunningham and FF Avellani along with Chief Hempel in Car 1 responded from IW Station next door. Upon arrival it was confirmed that smoke was coming from ceiling vents from an inknown source. The building was evacuated, mutual aid was requested, 9E3 crew began to seek the orgin of fire and insure all occupants were accounted for. Chief Hempel requested a 1st alarm to provide additional firefighting resources. Intial arriving companies included Alton, Barnstead and Belmont along with thier respective Fire Chiefs. Crews determined that the fire orginated in an
HVAC unt. The fire was contained to the area of origin. Damage was limted.
The Store was able to reopen less than 24 hours after the incident. We wish to thank all our mutual aid partners for thier assistance as well as Gilmanton and Alton PD for closing down RT 140. It takes many hands to manage a response like this. With the size and age of this building it poses a very large risk for a catastrophic incindent. We are thankful for the outcome. Smoke and Heat detection assisted in this positive outcome.
