By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
In the early hours of Jan. 11, a quick-thinking snowplow driver helped avert a potential disaster by spotting smoke at the Esso gas station in Stanstead. Noticing smoke emerging from the building’s roof around 3:30 a.m., the driver alerted the station clerk, who then called the fire department.
“The snowplow operator smelled smoke and didn’t ignore it. That situational awareness likely saved the building,” said Battalion Chief Dany Brus in a Jan. 11 interview.
Fire crews, led by Stanstead Battalion Chief Chris Goodsell, responded swiftly and efficiently. They contained the fire to the roof area, preventing further spread and minimizing structural damage. “The team knocked it down fast and hard,” Brus said, emphasizing the firefighters’ professionalism. The station remains operational, with only the fire-affected section temporarily closed for repairs.
While the exact cause of the fire is still under investigation, initial findings suggest an electrical issue. Chief Brus noted that the situation, though under control, had the potential to escalate given the location of the fire. “Being in the roof of a gas station, it could have been much worse,” he explained, adding that the underground tanks and turned-off pumps posed less immediate risk.
The winter conditions added an extra layer of complexity. Ice accumulation from recent weather events made navigating the roof treacherous, while freezing temperatures created challenges with water lines and equipment. Despite this, the firefighters managed the situation effectively. “Winter firefighting is a different ballgame,” Brus said, acknowledging the team’s preparation and adaptability.
The fire was fully extinguished by roughly 7 a.m., and the team remained on-site for cleanup and safety checks. Chief Brus took the opportunity to commend the department’s effort. “Hats off to the Stanstead crew for their hard work,” he said, while also encouraging locals to consider joining their ranks. “We’re always recruiting. If you’re interested, reach out to your local fire department.”
As repairs begin at the gas station, the quick actions of both the snowplough driver and the firefighters have ensured that the damage remains contained, preserving an important community hub.
