PORTLAND, Maine — A major fire at Custom House Wharf caused extensive damage in Portland’s historic Old Port district, destroying one waterfront building and injuring two firefighters during a challenging emergency response.
Fire crews were dispatched at approximately 5:30 p.m. after reports of smoke and flames coming from the wharf near Commercial Street. According to officials, personnel with Casco Bay Ferry Lines were among the first to report the fire after spotting the burning structure from the water.
By the time firefighters arrived, the blaze had already intensified, requiring an aggressive response to prevent it from spreading to neighboring buildings along the busy waterfront.
Firefighters Face Difficult Conditions
Emergency crews encountered several obstacles while battling the fire, including freezing temperatures that affected access to water supplies.
Officials said frozen fire hydrants complicated firefighting efforts, forcing crews to rely heavily on marine firefighting operations. Fire boats assisted by directing water onto the burning building from the harbor while firefighters continued suppression efforts from land.
Deputy Chief Jon Hendricks said the first responding crews acted quickly to keep the flames from spreading farther along the wharf despite the difficult conditions.
Their efforts successfully contained the fire before it reached additional waterfront structures.
Building Declared a Total Loss
Authorities said the building where the fire originated was destroyed.
The incident also caused damage to nearby properties, although firefighters prevented a larger fire from spreading through the densely built Old Port waterfront.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Two Firefighters Sustain Minor Injuries
Two firefighters suffered minor injuries while responding to the incident.
Officials confirmed that neither required hospitalization, and no civilian injuries were reported.
Emergency personnel remained at the scene for several hours to extinguish remaining hot spots and secure the damaged structure.
Waterfront Firefighting Operations
Marine firefighting resources played an essential role in controlling the blaze.
The response included:
- Fire engines and ladder trucks.
- Marine firefighting vessels.
- Coordinated waterfront suppression operations.
- Structure protection for nearby buildings.
- Extended overhaul operations to eliminate remaining hot spots.
Officials credited the coordinated response with preventing a much larger disaster in one of Portland’s busiest waterfront districts.
Fire Safety Reminder Ahead of the Fourth of July
Following the incident, Portland Fire & Rescue reminded residents that consumer fireworks are prohibited within Portland city limits.
Officials encouraged residents to attend professionally organized public fireworks displays instead of using personal fireworks, emphasizing that dry conditions and structural fire risks can increase the likelihood of serious incidents.
Residents are encouraged to report illegal fireworks through the city’s non-emergency reporting system and to call 911 immediately if they observe a fire or other emergency.
Investigation Continues
Fire investigators continue working to determine what caused the blaze.
The investigation includes:
- Examining the point of origin.
- Reviewing physical evidence.
- Interviewing witnesses.
- Assessing structural damage.
- Determining whether accidental or other factors contributed.
Officials are expected to release additional information once the investigation is complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the Portland fire occur?
The fire occurred at Custom House Wharf near Commercial Street in Portland’s historic Old Port district.
Were there any injuries?
Yes. Two firefighters sustained minor injuries, but neither required hospitalization. No civilian injuries were reported.
What caused the fire?
The cause remains under investigation, and officials have not announced a determination.
Was the building saved?
No. Officials said the building where the fire started was considered a total loss, although firefighters prevented the blaze from spreading to much of the surrounding wharf.
Are fireworks legal in Portland, Maine?
No. Consumer fireworks are prohibited within Portland city limits, and officials encourage residents to attend authorized public displays instead.
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