54 Turner Street, the Scene of a Fire on Munjoy Hill.

The Rear Deck of the Building at 54 Turner Street.

Last night Portland Firefighters were kept busy with two building fires reported a few hours apart according to a press release issued by the Department today.

The first fire was called into the Portland Regional Communications Center at 4:14 pm reporting a building fire at 63 Pembroke Street in the Washington Gardens complex in the East Deering neighborhood.

Arriving firefighters found fire on the deck of a 2-story residential building.  Bystanders were attempting to extinguish the fire upon the arrival of firefighters. Crews investigated to ensure that thee was no fire extension to the building and were able to clear the scene in about an hour.  Portland Firefighters determined that the case of this fire was “accidental” due to improperly disposed of smoking materials.

Later in the evening at 10:41 pm., crews responded to 54 Turner Street on Munjoy Hill after a resident of the 5-unit apartment building noticed smoke coming from the eves of the building.  Upon arrival firefighters located a fire in the attic. They were able to extinguish the fire after opening up sections of the ceiling and walls in the immediate area of the fire.  Portland Fire investigators have listed the cause as “undetermined” but it appeared to be electrical in nature.  The occupants of the unit where the fire was located were displaced for the night, but the occupants of the other four apartments were able to return after fire crews cleared the scene.

Thee were no injuries reported to anyone in either fire.

“While fire appartus were responding to 54 Turner Street, they were delayed by numerous illegally parked vehicles on Munjoy Hill,” said Captain John Brennan.  “With the warmer weather arriving and the excitement of being able to resume some normal summer activities in the city.  We urge area residents and visitors to be alert as to where they park.”