10:24 AM

Early this morning (at 12:21 am) Firefighters from Portland's Mt. Tabor Fire Station 19 were called to a house fire at 930 NE 70th. When they arrived (in under 4 minutes) firefighters found a detached garage engulfed in flames with fire extending to the nearby home's attic. The homes occupants were safely outside and firefighters began aggressively attacking the fire. Firefighters from Ladder Truck 7 began opening up the ceiling inside the house to gain access to the fire.

These fires can be difficult as firefighters are essentially fighting two building fires at once. This forces constant reevaluation of priorities and strategy. The fire was recalled (declared under control) by 12:47 am. At this point firefighters began the"overhaul process" which entails sorting through fire debris looking for any remaining hot spots that could reignite the fire. Often during this process portions of the structure have to be cut away as they pose a collapse danger or block access to fire embers.

The American Red Cross was called to assist the homes occupants (a family) with shelter as the home will be uninhabitable. No one was injured by this fire. The cause of this fire is undetermined at this point and damages are estimated at $50,000.

Portland Fire & Rescue reminds the public to be vigilant as the weather gets warmer. Common causes of fire during the summertime are:

-Improperly discarded smoking products.

-Improperly discarded barbecue Ash.

-Illegal or improperly used fireworks.