The Portland Bureau of Transportation announced that a standard increase in fines for most parking violations has been approved by the Multnomah County Circuit Court.  This increase will take effect on Monday, November 30, 2009. The increases will address rising parking violations, cover costs of service, and maintain a fine schedule that aligns with similar metropolitan jurisdictions. 

So what’s Portland Fire & Rescue’s stake in all of this?

Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R) supports initiatives that help to minimize safety violations such as blocking a fire hydrant.  On November 30^th, the fine for parking at a fire hydrant will increase from $100.00 to $150.00. 

PF&R firefighters need to get to fire hydrants for water supply. An obstruction including a vehicle could cause a delay in firefighters gaining access to get water to extinguish a fire. PF&R reminds you to take a moment after parking to ensure your vehicle is legally parked within space markings and not blocking crosswalks, hydrants, ramps, and other rights of way.

Click here to view the official press release from the City of Portland Bureau of Transportation.

November 24, 2009

Over the weekend, Toy N Joy brought gifts to a family that was displaced by a fire at their home on SE 129th Ave.  The home's occupants were alerted to the fire by smoke detectors and everyone got out safely while firefighters battled the blaze.  The family, which includes eight children ranging in age from 2- 17, has temporarily relocated to a relative's home.

Toy N Joy Makers' mission for 94 years has been to promote the spirit of helping children and families in our community during the holiday season and in times of need.  To donate, volunteer or request assistance, you can contact Toy N Joy Makers at (503) 823-0922 or by e-mail at info@toynjoymakers.org.

November 23, 2009

These photos were sent in to the Fire Blog this morning by Automotive Trades Supervisor, Mike Bartell.  Today, Portland Fire & Rescue vehicle maintenance staff is busy in the appartus bay putting hundreds of studded tires on our emergency response vehicles.  This annual fall tradition prepares these vehicles to respond to emergencies in inclement weather.  Thanks to Mike and his staff for all the work they do to keep our vehicles safe and ready to serve!

 November 23, 2009

Portland Fire & Rescue investigators released the cause of this morning's fire that destroyed four semi-trucks on Swan Island.  A mechanical/electrical malfunction caused the fire which completely destroyed four trucks and severely damaged four 50' trailers.  Damage is estimated at $1 million dollars.

Firefighters were called to N. Channel Avenue at about 3:15 am on Wednesday, November 25, 2009.  Firefighters arrived on-scene and reported heavy fire and smoke from a fenced and secured area. After cutting the chain on one of the gates, firefighters were able to extinguish the fire in a matter of minutes.

Concerns were raised about runoff from the fire flowing into the Willamette River.  A fireboat was dispatched to check the outflows in the area and found no evidence of contamination in the river.

November 25, 2009

On Tuesday, November 17, Truck 7 was in Portland Fire & Rescue’s apparatus bay to have its suspension airbags replaced by Richard, one of our highly skilled emergency vehicle technicians.  Truck 7 is one of nine trucks in service that have what is known as a Tillerman cab on the back of it, allowing firefighters to steer this 59’ long ladder truck in the front and the rear.  This particular truck is eight years old and its suspension airbags had developed cracks in them.  The airbags provide a cushion of air for the truck to ride on.  I’m pleased to report that thanks to Richard’s excellent work, Truck 7’s airbags are good as new and is back in service.

Stay tuned to the Fire Blog for upcoming blogs on how our on-site mechanics keep Portland’s firetrucks, engines, and other rescue equipment in business and ready to serve the community.

November 25, 2009