Firefighters were dispatched to a possible electrical problem at 7440 SE Rural St.  As Engine 11 (Lents) approached the residence they discovered a large column of smoke and upgraded the electrical problem to a residential fire.  When Engine 11 arrived at the residence they found that the garage and rear portion of the residence was on fire and pulled hose lines to begin an interior fire attack.  Additional Engine companies arrived to assist with the interior fire attack, search for victims, and protect nearby structures. Truck 25 (Woodstock) laddered the roof of the residence and used chain saws to provide ventilation of the heat and smoke below so that interior crews could operate more effectively.

A fire investigator was also dispatched to the scene and determined that fire had been started from arcing at an electric panel in the garage. It was noted that there were no operating smoke detectors in the garage. No injuries were reported. Damage estimate was set at $50,000 to structure and contents.

Portland Fire & Rescue would like to remind residents to be attentive to the presence and  operation of smoke detectors as this can be a critical life saving component of your home. Make sure you have detectors throughout your home and make sure they work.

Contact info, for media use only:
Lt. Rich Chatman
Public Information Officer
Portland Fire & Rescue
Media Pager: 503-940-6003