Photo by NASHUA FIRE RESCUE Flames and smoke are visible on the upper level of the split-level home at 16 Lockness Drive Wednesday night as firefighters pull hoselines inside to attack the fire.

NASHUA – Flames broke out Wednesday evening at 16 Lockness Drive, and although the occupants, including a dog, were able to evacuate before firefighters arrived, the damage was such that they aren’t able to live there for the time being.

Nashua Fire Rescue Deputy Chief Kevin Kerrigan said crews were called to the home, which is in a large neighborhood between Harris and Conant roads known as Scott Burns Estates, at 8:41 p.m. for a reported house fire.

First to arrive was Engine 6 from the Conant Road Station, and the crew reported fire showing from the house.

They grabbed a hoseline and made their way inside to attack the flames they encountered on the first floor, Kerrigan said.

As the crew of Engine 3 backed them up, ladder truck personnel conducted a search of the house to make sure everyone was in fact safely out of the building.

One of the occupants was transported to Southern New Hampshire Medical Center for evaluation, Kerrigan said. He didn’t specify the reason for the evaluation, but it apparently wasn’t serious.

He said the fire was brought under control within 10 minutes of crews’ arrival. They remained on the scene for a time checking for hotspots and assisting the residents.

The house sustained smoke and heat damage throughout, Kerrigan added.

He said the house was equipped with working smoke detectors, prompting him to remind all residents to make sure their detectors are working. When they sound, “always leave the building immediately, and close all doors” on the way out.

Kerrigan said the cause of the fire remains under investigation by members of the city Fire Marshal’s office.

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