Nashua Fire Rescue stock file

NASHUA — Three occupants of a third-floor, garden-style condominium at the Hollis Crossing complex safely evacuated when flames broke out in their home Friday evening, but the damage was such that they had to seek alternative housing for the time being.

All the other residents of the building, at 9 Bartemus Trail, were evacuated as well, as first arriving firefighters on Engine 5, from the Pine Hill Road Fire Station, also known as the Airport Fire Station, were directed by residents to the third floor.

Crews entered with hose lines, and upon reaching the third floor located the fire in Unit 307, according to Nashua Fire Rescue Deputy Chief James Kirk.

He said water from the sprinkler system had kept the flames in check, and crews were able to finish extinguishing them within minutes after entering the apartment.

The fire did create a heavy smoke condition on the third floor, Kirk said.

By then the crew of Engine and Ladder 1 from Amherst Street station had arrived, and began assisting occupants who were evacuating, then took control of the sprinkler system and began deploying large tarps called salvage covers to protect furnishings and other building contents from the water that made its way down to the lower floors.

The fire was first reported to Fire Alarm dispatch via an alarm monitoring company, which notified dispatchers an alarm had been activated at 9 Bartemus Trail.

At about the same time, Kirk said, a 911 call reporting the building on fire came in to headquarters.

Thanks to the alarm and sprinkler activations and the prompt arrival of firefighters, no injuries were reported.

Kirk said everyone was able to return to their condos except the three occupants of Unit 307.

He said the cause of the fire is under investigation by representatives of the city Fire Marshal’s office.

Dean Shalhoup may be reached at 594-1256 or dshalhoup@nashuatelegraph.com.