The Scarborough Fire Department says they responded to 17 calls for service within about eight hours Monday, mostly linked to a power outage.

The department says the outbreak of calls was for incidents such as electrical hazards, fire alarm activations, stalled elevators, and a downed primary power line.

Firefighters also say all three Scarborough ambulances remained occupied responding to medical emergencies across town.

They say fire trucks and vehicles from neighboring towns were brought in during the excess of calls as part of their mutual aid system to ensure uninterrupted emergency services.

Scarborough firefighters are urging the public to stay away from any downed wires or damaged electrical equipment and report hazards to 911. They thanked the public for being patient during the unusually busy period.

Scarborough experienced a widespread power outage of nearly 5000 customers Monday afternoon, likely caused by a crash that took down a utility pole and equipment, blocking Route 1 in Dunstan.