Bedford Fire Department Brings Mutual Aid to Thoreau Elementary School in Concord

Bedford firefighters joined a regional effort late Monday afternoon to subdue a fire at the Thoreau Elementary School in West Concord.

Bedford Fire Chief David Grunes said three alarms were struck because of the excessive heat and humidity, and firefighters went into the building in 20-minute rotations in an effort to preclude injury and dehydration. He praised the Concord department for managing the attack and averting any injuries.

The Bedford response was one vehicle with a lieutenant and two firefighters. Grunes, who also was at the scene, said it appeared the building sustained mostly smoke and water damage.

Grunes said his department has additional staffing on hand for the next few days, which is standard during weather like this, anticipating emergency calls. He said one concern is overloaded electrical circuits.