June 25, 2011

10:38 AM

At Approx. 4:14am Portland Fire and Rescue began receiving reports of fire at a Northeast Portland Apartment (2010 NE Lombard).  On arrival firefighters found heavy fire on the exterior of a duplex.  The occupants of the apartment were out and safe thanks to an astute neighbor who alerted them to the fire.

Firefighters from Station 14 (19th and Killingsworth) quickly extinguished the blaze with help from Station 8 (7134 N Maryland).  Fortunately the majority of this fire was on the exterior, however the occupants of the affected apartment were forced to run very near the fire to escape as the apartment had only one exit.  The apartment had bars on the rear windows making the front slider the only viable exit, unfortunately this was also the side that was on fire.

The next door neighbor stated that an unusual sound woke him and he looked outside and saw flames.  After ensuring that his own family was out and safe the man alerted the occupants of the apartment that was on fire.  The helpful neighbor was transported to Legacy Emanuel Hospital for evaluation as he was exposed to a large amount of smoke while trying to wake the occupants of the burning apartment.

This fire started in an outdoor storage area.  The fire was caused by improperly discarded Barbecue ash.  This press release will be updated with damage estimates when they are available.

Portland Fire & Rescue would like to remind resident to properly discard ashes in a metal container with a securely fastened lid. 

We would also ask everyone to create and practice a fire escape plan.  Any good fire escape plan should include at least two exit points from a residence and a safe meeting area.

Portland Fire & Rescue recognizes the quick and decisive action of the neighbor who helped to ensure that the occupants escaped safely while not putting himself in danger.

Fast Facts
Dispatched- 4:14am
First Unit Arrived- 4:18am
Recalled (incident under control)- 4:34am
Approx. 30 PF&R Firefighters responded.

 

 Portland Fire & Rescue

 We Respond: Always Ready, Always There

 June 25, 2011

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