Firefighters were dispatched to a house fire (3741 NE 37 Ave.) at 6:40 pm yesterday. They arrived to "light smoke coming from the front door", said Lieutenant Aaron Gagnon. Fire crews quickly searched for the occupant, dispatchers said that he was trying to extinguish the fire and was still in the house. Station 14 (Vernon), Station 28 (Rose City), Station 12 (Sumner) and Station 13 (Lloyd Center) responded on the incident. The fire originated in the basement and firefighters quickly put it out before it could extend to the walls. No one was injured during this incident.

Later, (4:18 am) fire crews responded to another house fire located at 9621 N. Pier Park Pl. This fire also originated in the basement. Station 22 (St Johns), Station 26 (Portsmouth), Station 8 (Kenton), and Station 6 (NW Industrial) responded on this call. No one was injured this fire. Both fires are under investigation and damage estimates are forthcoming.

Portland Fire & Rescue would like to remind all that small fires turn into large fires quickly. Get out fast and call 911.

Contact info, for media use only:
Ron Rouse P.I.O.
Portland Fire & Rescue
Media pager (503) 940 6003