Volunteer firefighters ranks have been suffering in recent years. With older volunteers retiring, younger individuals are needed to fill the ranks.

But what happened last week in the town of Portland has to make plenty have second thoughts.

Just before 3 p.m., a home on Webster Road near the town of Westfield caught fire. As numerous departments responded, several of those putting their lives on the line became “overcome with fumes.” At least 10 were affected and three received Narcan, the opioid-overdose antidote.

“The house was totally destroyed. … We have no idea where anything was inside or what may have been in there,” said David McIntyre, town of Portland fire chief.

Most dangers with house fires are obvious. In Portland, however, there was something unseen that made the work even more dangerous. And yes, we have all heard “rumors and guesses.”

What happened was serious — and we hope all those who were impacted are healing and recovering.