Portland Fire & Rescue Responds to an Apartment Fire (Photo) - update with photos

PORTLAND FIRE & RESCUE RESPONDS TO AN APARTMENT FIRE (PHOTO) - UPDATE WITH PHOTOS


News Release from Portland Fire & Rescue
Posted on FlashAlert: October 10th, 2015 10:36 AM
Downloadable file: 3953_SE_Gladstone_Fire_(2).jpg
Downloadable file: 3953_SE_Gladstone_(1).JPG
*** 3rd Update ********
Fire investigators have determined the cause of the fire: improperly discarded smoking material. Damage to the unit estimated at 40%.

Smoking is the leading cause of preventable home fire deaths. About one out of four fire deaths are caused by smoking materials.

- Put out all cigarettes, cigars, or pipes before you leave the room.

- Never smoke in bed.

- Use deep ashtrays. Don't put ashtrays on the arms of sofas or chairs.

- Keep matches and lighters locked up, away from children. Teach children to tell you if they find a lighter or matches.

- If smokers have visited, check floors and seat cushions for butts and ashes that may have dropped.



**2nd Update***
"Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the two people who's lives were lost in today's early morning fire," stated Chief Erin Janssens. "I am thankful for the passerby that stopped and notified all of the residents in the apartment complex to evacuate, and the quick actions of our firefighters to stop the fire from spreading to the rest of building."

*******

**Update: "Our condolences to the family and friends of the person who lost their life in this fire today", stated Chief Erin Janssens.

The other resident remains in critical condition at Providence Hospital.

**

Portland Fire & Rescue responded to a house fire at 3953 SE Gladstone St at 7:15am today. Flames and smoke were pouring out from the back of the apartment building when fire fighters arrived. Fire crews immediately began fighting the fire and conducting a search due to reports of residents who were possibly still inside. Shortly after entering the structure, fire fighters found two adults and carried them out to safety.

Both of occupants were transported to local hospitals.



The fire was under control around 7:45am. Crews are still working to mop up and assist fire investigators in determining the cause of the fire.

The Red Cross assisted one resident and four pets from the apartment next to the fire unit.

This fire is a stark reminder of how quickly anyone can be overcome by fire and the importance of working smoke alarms. Portland Fire & Rescue wants to make certain that you always have an escape plan with at least two ways out, practice your plan with your family, and have working smoke alarms on every level, in every sleeping area and replace them every 10 years.

At this time, the cause of the fire is still under investigation. The apartment was heavily damaged and damage estimates are pending. PF&R will update the information as it becomes available.
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