Key Takeaways
- A three-alarm blaze destroyed one business and significantly damaged another on Custom House Wharf in Portland’s Old Port on Friday night.
- The fire appeared to originate in a boat repair shop, but the cause is still unknown.
- Firefighters from the Portland Fire Department, as well as neighboring departments, responded to the scene and had the blaze under control by 7:30 p.m.
- One firefighter sustained a minor injury, but there were no other reported injuries.
- The fire damaged multiple boats and businesses, including Maritime Antiques and the Sea Bags Factory Store.
Introduction to the Fire
A devastating fire broke out on Portland’s waterfront on Friday night, destroying one business and causing significant damage to another, as well as boats docked at Custom House Wharf in the Old Port. The fire was first reported by people on Casco Bay Lines ferries who saw the flames on Custom House Wharf and called the Portland Fire Department around 5:30 p.m. Deputy Fire Chief Jon Hendricks stated that the fire appeared to originate in a boat repair shop, but the cause was unknown at the time.
Firefighting Efforts
The Portland Fire Department responded quickly to the scene, with approximately 45 members on site. Additional personnel from neighboring departments, including Westbrook, South Portland, and Cape Elizabeth, also responded to assist. In total, nearly 100 firefighters in the Greater Portland area were activated to help combat the blaze. The fireboat played a crucial role in fighting the fire, especially after frozen hydrants near the waterfront burst, flooding about half the wharf. Firefighters on the ground faced challenges not only from the fire but also from icy conditions and nearly a foot of water in the fire area.
Damage and Aftermath
The fire spread from the boat repair shop to the roof of the adjacent Maritime Antiques store, causing significant damage. The Sea Bags Factory Store also received damage, with hoses running through the business during the firefighting efforts. Multiple boats near the wharf were damaged, with one reportedly sinking. The repair shop was left in a pile of debris, and the roof of the antique shop collapsed, resting on its floor. Custom House Wharf is also home to several well-known seafood restaurants, including Harbor Fish Market, Boone’s Fish House & Oyster Room, and The Porthole.
Investigation and Response
The Office of the State Fire Marshal conducted a preliminary investigation and will resume their efforts on Saturday. However, determining the cause of the fire may take time due to the extent of the damage. The Portland Fire Department had the blaze under control by 7:30 p.m., and crews slowly trickled out from the scene, lugging hoses as they sloshed through water up to the tops of their boots. One firefighter sustained a minor injury, but there were no other reported injuries. Bystanders showed appreciation for the firefighters’ efforts, with some providing cups of hot chocolate to help keep them warm.
Conclusion and Reflection
The fire on Custom House Wharf was a significant incident that highlighted the bravery and quick response of the Portland Fire Department and neighboring departments. Despite the challenges posed by the icy conditions and flooding, firefighters were able to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading further. The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, and it may take time to determine the exact origin. However, one thing is clear: the firefighters’ efforts saved the surrounding businesses and prevented a potentially more disastrous outcome. As the community begins to recover from the fire, it is essential to acknowledge the contributions of the firefighters and the importance of their work in keeping the community safe.