Posted @ 3:10 pm

With temperatures on the rise, Portland Fire and Rescue responded to a three story house fire at 934 S.E. 32nd at 12:58 pm. 911 dispatchers relayed to firefighters en route to the fire that many callers reported flames coming from the house on the corner of 32nd and S.E. Taylor Street.

The first in fire engine reported that the main part of the fire was coming from the rear of the house and moving up to the second and third floors. Firefighters had to use axes and pike poles to help open up the walls where the fire was moving fast.

First reports indicate that five people lived in the house and that not all the occupants were out of the house. Firefighters quickly searched all floors for any missing people. Firefighters found two occupants in the basement of the house trying to escape from a basement window. Both of the occupants were checked by Portland Fire Paramedics and released on scene with no medical problems.

Because of the rising temperatures a special rehab rig was called in to help cool firefighters with cold refreshments and shade.

"It is critical this time of year that we keep a close eye on firefighters working in the heat," said Paul Corah Portland Fire and Rescue spokesperson. "It doesn't take long to suffer heat exhaustion on days like today."

The fire was brought under control at 1:48 pm. Fire Investigators are on scene trying to determine the cause of the fire.

"I wouldn't be surprised if the damages are around the $80,000 range," said Battalion Chief Tom Williams.