PORTLAND, Ore. — A kitchen fire in a 14th-floor apartment on East Burnside Street was quickly contained Saturday afternoon after the building’s automatic sprinkler system activated, preventing the flames from spreading and limiting damage.
Portland Fire & Rescue crews responded shortly after 1:30 p.m. to reports of a fire in a high-rise apartment building located on East Burnside Street between 2nd and 3rd avenues.
According to fire officials, the apartment resident safely evacuated the unit and called 911 to report that the kitchen was on fire.
Firefighters encountered access challenges upon arrival because a street fair occupied the east side of the building. The Portland Police Bureau assisted by managing traffic, allowing emergency crews to reach the building quickly.
When firefighters arrived, they observed smoke coming from a 14th-floor window. Crews entered the building as fire alarms sounded and residents safely evacuated. Due to the visible smoke and the potential risks associated with a high-rise fire, the incident commander requested a second alarm to ensure additional resources were available if the fire spread.
Once inside the apartment, firefighters discovered that the building’s automatic fire sprinkler system had already extinguished most of the fire. Crews shut down the sprinkler system, ventilated smoke from the apartment, and worked to minimize water damage.
The resident was evaluated at the scene for minor smoke inhalation but declined transportation for additional medical treatment.
A Portland Fire & Rescue investigator determined the fire was accidental. Investigators said combustible materials left on the stovetop ignited after a stove knob was accidentally turned on.
Fire officials said the incident demonstrates the critical role automatic sprinkler systems play in protecting lives and property by rapidly controlling fires before they can spread.
Portland Fire & Rescue is reminding residents to keep combustible materials away from stovetops at all times. Even when a stove is not in use, officials warn that accidentally turning on a burner can quickly ignite nearby items and start a dangerous fire.
About the Author
Discover more from Right Now Oregon
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
