Penobscot County Family Escapes Fast Acting Fire In Hampden As Flames Spread From Grill To Mobile Home

A run-of-the- mill weekend barbecue turned devastating Sunday night when authorities say flames from a grill spread to a nearby mobile home and shed, right around 9 PM.

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According to the Hampden Public Safety Department, firefighters from multiple surrounding towns were called to the area of 681 Main Rd. North in Hampden, a mobile home park, where a mobile home had caught fire in Lot 1.

"Upon arrival, firefighters found the mobile home well-involved with heavy fire. On-scene personnel quickly confirmed with bystanders that all occupants had safely evacuated the structure. However, crews were alerted to a pet trapped in a carrier on the porch. Firefighters acted swiftly to remove the pet from the porch and bring it to safety. "

We're told all of the other animals were accounted for as well.

Director of Public Safety Christian Bailey says it was a collaborative and coordinated effort by all public safety personnel involved that kept the fire contained to the initial mobile home and a nearby shed, preventing it from spreading to adjacent properties within the mobile home park or neighboring houses.

Authorities say the American Red Cross was on hand Sunday evening to assist the individuals affected by the fire.

A recent report released by the Maine State Fire Marshal's Office indicates that the number of mobile home fires is on the rise, increasing by 18% from 2022 to 2023.

According to manufacturedhomeliving.com, some of the older manufactured mobile homes could be at a higher risk for fire danger than newer models.

"A study by the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) highlighted that mobile homes, particularly those built before HUD code regulations, are more susceptible to fires compared to other residential structures. The NFPA report also emphasizes the importance of fire safety measures specific to mobile homes.

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There were no reports of any injuries to residents or firefighters associated with Sunday's fire.

We're told the mobile home was a total loss.