January 17, 2012

12:19 pm

Portland Fire & Rescue responded early this morning to the report of a downed power line at the intersection of NW Skyline Blvd and NW Thompson Road, just two blocks from Forest Heights Station 27. Upon arrival Engine 27 found a car on fire as a result of a downed power line that had fallen on top of it.

Fires caused by downed power lines create additional hazards for firefighters. The car that was on fire was still energized by the power line, making the use of water to directly extinguish the fire impossible. Efforts were concentrated on protecting nearby exposures.

Portland Fire reminds its citizens that contact with downed power lines could end tragically, and snowy conditions can hide the downed power line from view. Please be sure to maintain a safe distance to avoid contact with downed power lines. If you encounter a downed power line, call 9-1-1. Dispatchers will then make sure the proper resources respond.

 Portland Fire & Rescue