Fire apparatus remain one of the most recognizable features of Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R). Much time and effort is spent on the care and maintenance of these vehicles. In most cases, fire apparatus serve for about 25 years.  Some exceptions have shown great longevity.  One thing is certain – new or old, a shiny piece of fire equipment always draws public interest.

One such apparatus is PF&R’s 1911 American LaFrance Metropolitan 3rd class steamer. The steam fire engine was capable of pumping 600 gallons of water per minute using the steam driven water pump.  The beautiful boiler carried water, which was boiled by a fire built below it.  The resulting steam would turn the motor mechanism which would turn the water pump.  Unlike today where fire hydrants provide firefighting water, the olden days utilized cisterns.  Cisterns were brick lined pits in the street that would hold water for firefighting. 

The Steamer is the last horse-drawn vehicle ever purchased by Portland Fire & Rescue. The first motorized vehicle was purchased in 1909, which ushered in the era of the motorized fire engine.  By 1920, all fire equipment would be gasoline powered.  This vehicle had been stored away and found in the 1970s.  It underwent several years of painstaking restoration by Al Carroci and Frank Maas before it’s unveiling in 1985.  It can be seen on display at PF&R’s Station 1 located at 55 SW Ash Street in downtown Portland.

Each year, Portland firefighters march behind the steamer in the Grand Floral Parade. The steamer is pulled by four Belgian horses provided by Chafin Farms located in Sweet Home, Oregon.

Portland Fire’s proud history began in 1853 and continues today.  The same pride and workmanship displayed in this beautiful vehicle serves the citizens of Portland each and every day. 

July 4, 2011

9:46 AM

Portland Fire & Rescue responded to a commercial fire at 3:16am this morning.  When crews arrived they reported that the front exterior of the church was the only area involved in the fire.  The church, Sekhet-Maat Lodge, is located at 1409 SE Stark St. The fire was quickly contained and Investigators have determined the fire to be arson.  The investigation is still open, and there is no identified suspect at this time. If anyone has information about the incident please contact the Investigations Office at (503) 823-1398.  

The loss to the building was estimated at $5000.00
The loss to the contents was estimated at $1000.00

4 Engines, 2 Trucks, 1 Squad, 2 Chiefs and 1 Investigator responded.
  

 Portland Fire & Rescue

 We Respond: Always Ready, Always There

 July 4, 2011

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July 4, 2011

11:21 PM

Updated with Fire Cause:

Portland Fire Investigators have determined that this fire was caused by illegal fireworks that landed on the roof of this commercial structure and ignited the fast-moving blaze. The roofs of the businesses at 1725 NE Alberta (Barista Coffee Shop) and 1733 NE Alberta (Aviary) were heavily damaged in the blaze.  Investigators estimate damages from this fire to be $60,000 to the structure and $40,000 to the contents of the building.

Portland Fire & Rescue reminds citizens that Oregon law bans possession, use, or sale of any fireworks that fly, explode, travel more than one foot into the air, or more than six feet on the ground.  These fireworks are illegal, and as illustrated by tonight's fire, can cause significant damage to property and put lives and safety in jeopardy.

July 4, 2011

10:26 pm

At 10:06 pm, Portland firefighters responded to reports of a fire at the Barista Coffee Shop located at 1725 NE Alberta St.  First arriving crews encountered heavy fire and smoke coming through the roof of the structure.  Firefighters immediately took a defensive attack on this fire and the incident commander called for a 2nd alarm bringing additional resources, firefighters, and apparatus (trucks and engines) to the scene.

Firefighters later transitioned to an offensive fire attack and were able to knock down the fire and residual hot spots inside the structure.  The business at 1733 NE Alberta, Aviary, was also impacted by this fire.  Fire Investigators are currently on scene working to determine the fire's cause.  Damage estimates are not yet available. Fire crews will remain on scene throughout the night.
  

 Portland Fire & Rescue

 We Respond: Always Ready, Always There

 July 4, 2011

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July 5, 2011

7:59 AM

At 6:27 am, Portland Fire & Rescue was dispatched to reports of a residential fire at 1758 SE 112th Avenue.  Upon arrival firefighters from SE Portland's Station 7 encountered heavy black smoke and flames pouring from the front, side and roof of the residence. 

"Flames were pouring out the front of this house and the front door had been blown off when Truck 7 pulled up to this fire," said Lieutenant David Barron.

Firefighters began to aggressively attack the fire and search for occupants. They found four people trapped in the back yard of the home, where venting propane tanks and gas cans created a hazardous situation for firefighters and the tapped residents.  Firefighters safely evacuated all four individuals.  A total of five occupants were in the home at the time of the fire and no on was injured.

One occupant attempted to re-enter the residence while firefighters were actively fighting this fire and was detained by Portland Police.  The home was divided into four separate dwelling units.  Additionally, there was a shed that was being occupied as a dwelling unit in the back yard.  One dog was in the residence at the time of the fire and was deceased.  Two vehicles were also damaged in the fire.

Fire investigators are on scene working to determine the fire's cause.  The home is determined to be a complete loss valued at $148,000.  The Red Cross has been called in to assist the five adults find alternate living arrangements.

Fires can strike at any time of the day or night.  Portland Fire & Rescue urges all citizens to have a home fire escape plan and practice it regularly in case there is a fire at your home.
  

 Portland Fire & Rescue

 We Respond: Always Ready, Always There

 July 5, 2011

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