July 14th, 2007 - 2-Alarm House Fire, Champlain Drive

On Saturday, July 14, 2007 at 1:56 PM, a first alarm assignment (3 Engines, Ladder Truck, Medic Unit and Battalion Chief) responded to a structure fire in the 3300 block of Champlain Drive NW.

En route firefighters could see a large column of smoke coming from the area.  Because of the amount of smoke in the area, a second alarm was called bringing more fire fighters and equipment to the scene.

When firefighters arrived on scene, the front portion of the home, as well as the front yard, was fully involved with fire.  Neighbors stated to firefighters that they were almost certain that the occupants were still inside.  Firefighters went into rescue mode and entered the structure.  They were greeted by a wall of fire and temperatures well over 1,000 degrees.  Firefighters searched the building for over 30-minutes and determined that there was no one inside.  Later it was discovered that the occupants were in Portland at the time of the fire.

It took firefighters approximately 45-minutes to bring the fire under control.  Five firefighters were evaluated by paramedics due to the heat.  

The occupants arrived on scene approximately 2 hours after the fire started.  Red Cross was notified to assist the family.

 The loss is estimated at $250,000.  The cause of the fire is under investigation. 

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