FERRISBURGH, Vt. -
Two families must decide if and how to continue their businesses after a devastating fire.
That fire heavily damaged a Ferrisburgh, Vermont building which housed a boat store and a farm repair shop.
Both families have run their businesses for decades. While both say they have insurance, they say it's unclear what will be covered as they try to rebuild.
From the flames to the blast of gas tanks, it was a scary and long night in Ferrisburgh, Vermont Monday.
"The explosions were like a World War III," says Karen Irish, who lives nearby.
Irish called 911 when she saw the fire.
"I am watching a landmark across the street thinking these poor people. They have worked their whole lives for this," says Irish.
For 80-years, this had been a farm equipment repair shop. About 20-years ago, a boat store opened up front.
"Approximately ten departments are helping us with this fire," says Chief Bill Wager, Ferrisburgh Fire Department.
Wager says it took several hours to put out the fire. He says there were major challenges including a water line breaking and the building's layout.
"This was a very dangerous fire for the fighters because of the way the buildings were constructed," says Wager.
Wager says two firefighters had minor injuries. But he says the good news is no one else was injured, nearby homes were nearly untouched and some things inside the businesses were saved.
The fire also forced the closure of Route 7 for several hours. While that reopened, it's not clear how or if both businesses will be able to do the same.
That's what Irish still thinks about.
"Very sad. I cried," says Irish.
At this point, the fire chief says he believes the fire started in the back of the building and thinks it might be accidental. He says it does not appear to be suspicious.
