Firefighters were dispatched to a Wildland fire (11:07 AM) this morning to the 400 block of NW Skyline Blvd. A tree had apparently fallen on a power line causing it to snap and ignite the dry brush on the side of the road. Portland Fire Station 16 (Sylvan) and Tualatin Valley Fire Station 60 responded on the initial dispatch. Upon arrival, the incident commander determined that more resources were needed to handle the fire. This was due to the lack of a nearby water supply, the amount of fire, and the 20 mph wind gust. Portland Fire Stations 10 (Burlingame), 3 (NW Pearl), and 18 (Multnomah Village) were called to assist and the fire was declared under control shortly thereafter. No structures were in immediate danger and there were no injuries.

With the warm, dry, unstable air in the region this afternoon, Portland Fire & Rescue would like to remind all to be extra careful. Ignite your recreational fires in a pit or container and completely extinguish them before leaving. Do not dispose of ashes until they are cold to the touch. Are there any branches close to power lines? Ask the power company to remove them. If not the power company, contact a tree service. Many are certified for work around utility electric lines.

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