Portland firefighters spent part of Friday morning working an active basement fire after Engine 25 reported visible flames and began putting water on the blaze, according to officials. Portland Fire & Rescue shared a brief alert on social media stating that crews were on scene and attacking the fire. At the time of that post, the bureau did not release any information about possible injuries, evacuations, or what might have started the fire.
What Portland Fire & Rescue Has Said So Far
In its short update, Portland Fire & Rescue reported that "Engine 25 is reporting active fire in the basement, and they are getting water on it right now." The post functioned as a quick operational snapshot and did not identify the building or provide an exact address for the incident. We have requested additional details from PF&R and are keeping an eye on further updates.
Which Crew Answered the Call
Engine 25 operates out of Station 25 in Portland’s Woodstock neighborhood, which covers portions of the city’s southeast side. The City of Portland lists Station 25 at 5211 SE Mall St., with Engine 25 and Truck 25 assigned there, according to the City of Portland.
Why Basement Fires Are So Dangerous
Basement fires can grow out of sight and push intense heat and smoke into upper floors, cutting into the time people have to escape. The National Fire Protection Association advises that homes should have working smoke alarms on every level, including basements, and that alarms should be tested monthly, per the NFPA. Federal fire-safety guidance from the U.S. Fire Administration also urges residents to follow evacuation instructions and give firefighters space to work while they knock down a blaze, according to the USFA.
