On Tuesday, December 21, Rideau Lakes Township lost the building that houses the Portland Fire Hall and its contents, including fire vehicles. At approximately 4:00 p.m. Tuesday afternoon, the three-bay facility on Colbourne Street was fully engulfed shortly after smoke was reported. No injuries have been reported.
“The hall and its contents were destroyed” remarked Scott Granahan, Fire Chief with the Township of Rideau Lakes, “the cause of the fire is still under investigation.”
The fire was extinguished by the Rideau Lakes Fire Department Delta, Elgin and Westport Stations, with assistance from the Smiths Falls Fire Department. Station coverage was provided by Leeds and the Thousand Islands and South Frontenac Departments.
Mayor Hoogenboom remarked “while a significant loss for the community, we are thankful that no one was injured in the fire.” He added “I extend my appreciation to our Firefighters and our neighbouring departments for their professionalism and support.”
The Township will have insurance coverage for the loss. Contingency measures will be developed and implemented by the Fire Department in the coming days to ensure continuation of fire and rescue services to the area impacted, despite the loss.