Posted: May 2nd, 2010 9:09 PM

Updated information for 3rd alarm fire:
Fire crews will remain on scene throughout the night extinguishing hot spots.  Investigators will work the scene tonight and tomorrow.  The structure is not stable for fire crews and investigators to enter at this time.  Engineers will meet with investigators in the morning to determine when they can enter the structure.  At this time there are no estimates on Building and Content values and losses.  Traffic on the major streets in the area are now open.  Initially there were hose lines across SW Barbur and SW Naito Parkway, which closed these major streets during the fire.

Fire Crews responded to a Commercial Fire at 1412, first arriving crews discovered smoke showing from the north side basement/first floor doors.  The building is an old church which now houses Great Northwest Bookstore.  Crews entered the structure for an Interior/Offensive fire attack.  They encountered a large volume of smoke and fire.  Other arriving first alarm companies found fire and smoke extending from the 2nd floor.  Chief officers arrived and ordered all crews to withdraw from the building.  The Chief in command accounted for all firefighters.  The fire transitioned to a Defensive/Exterior operation and a 2nd alarm was called at 1423.  A 3rd alarm was called at 1453; bringing a total of 96 firefighters to the scene.   

Challenges that fire companies encountered were 2 buildings in close proximity to the fire building.  Another challenge was the large volume of water needed to fight the fire and protect the 2 exposure buildings.  The Water Bureau was notified to boost the pressure in the area.

Fire Equipment sent to the scene:
12 Engines, 7 Trucks, 1 Heavy Rescue, 1 Rescue, 6 Chiefs, 1 Rehab Unit, 1 Air Unit, 1 Mobile Command Unit, and 2 Investigators.

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Portland Fire & Rescue is responding to a 3nd alarm fire at 3314 SW 1st, at Great Northwest Bookstore.  Some traffic in the area may be rerouted.  Media may meet the PIO at 2nd and Grover.


Contact Info: Lt. Dave Centers - PIO media pager 503-940-6003