WALES – Discarded embers from an outdoor wood boiler ignited a fire that destroyed the log home of Al and Laurie Harris on Morin Road on Monday afternoon.

More than 5 acres were scorched due to gusting winds and dry conditions, officials said. Gusting winds and dry conditions quickly fanned the fire, officials said, igniting 5.7 acres of woods.

“It’s devastating, but at least no one was hurt,” said Al Harris, who built the home 20 years ago.

No one was home at the time the fire broke out.

A neighbor reported the fire when a wood boiler was checked at 2:21 p.m.

Ten fire departments responded to the blaze, including Sabattus, Wales and Manchester. A Forest Service helicopter made water drops to help douse the flames.

“We did OK once we got water,” Sabattus Fire Chief Don Therrien said.

“[The wind] was a major factor because it helped fan the fire faster than on a normal day,” Wales Assistant Fire Chief Tony Siderio said. “We’re in the beginning of forest fire season.”

Fire crews ran a 4-inch water line to a hydrant on Oak Hill Road and were able to contain the fire after about two hours, saving the Harris’ camper that sustained some heat damage.

“The big concern – the fire is all out – is knocking down the hot spots,” Siderio said. “The surface is dry and a couple of old trees are burning.”

The Wales Fire Department was expected to remain at the scene to monitor hot spots into the night.

The fire danger was classified as high by the Maine Forest Service in central and southern Maine until 7:02 p.m. Monday. It was still at least moderate in the rest of the state, except areas covered by snow.