Frequently Asked Questions

Thank you for visiting the Jeff Morris web site.  By reviewing the drop down menu features above or below this box, most questions should be answered.  If you have additional questions, the "Contact Us" menu choice will enter your question to firehouse staff, who will send a reply as soon as possible.  Other questions may be answered below: 

Can events, such as birthday parties, meetings, or other activities be held at the Historic Belmont Firehouse?  Yes.  Many events have been held at the firehouse so please call to discuss your event needs.  The Firehouse does have some limitations on how many guests, which depends greatly on the type of event.

Is there a cost for activites at the Historic Belmont Firehouse?  Most tours and visitations are free of charge.  We ask for a donation to the Jeff Morris Foundation for parties or events that last more than an hour or utilize significant staff and resources.  Contact the Firehouse to discuss cost and details.

Are weekends available for events and activities?  Sometimes.  Staffing the firehouse on weekends can prove challenging but we do all we can to accommodate a diverse schedule of operation.

What age group is best suited for visits to the Firehouse?  Any age group can enjoy the Historic Belmont Firehouse.  Groups of children do need adequate supervision during a visit and this must be provided by the guest group.  Senior citizens will also find the facility well suited for mobility devices.  Floor space is open and chairs plentiful. 

How large or small of a group can participate in a tour?  Groups as small as one and as large as 50 are welcomed. 

Can donations be made to support the Safety Learning Center and Fire Museum?  Yes, donations can be placed in donation bins or given as cash, checks, or through credit card transactions at the firehouse.

I stopped by the Historic Belmont Firehouse and it looked closed.  Is anyone there?  Maybe.  The Public Educators of Portland Fire & Rescue maintain offices in the building but are often in the field delivering safety education programs or tied up doing phone and computer work.  Visits should be prefaced by an appointment to ensure you get the attention you deserve.

I see emergency vehicles parked along side the Historic Belmont Firehouse.  Do firefighters still work in the building? Yes, although the staff of the Historic Belmont Firehouse are assigned to the task of educating the public rather than responding to emergencies.  The local fire station is on SE 39th Avenue just south of Hawthorne.

Is the Historic Belmont Firehouse a better place to visit than my neighborhood fire station?  We believe it is.  We are not subject to emergency response so once you've made an appointment, your visitation experience is guaranteed to happen (fire stations are always subject to emergency calls).  Also, the Belmont Firehouse has a much wider range of equipment and information than any operating fire station will have.  All exhibits are designed to be safe, approachable, and educational.  It has features for all ages and interests. 

Is parking available at the Historic Belmont Firehouse?  On-street parking is available throughout the neighborhood.  Parking on Belmont has time limits so be watchful to avoid being ticketed.  Side streets often have plenty of parking but please be respectful of our neighbors yards and driveways.

What else is near the Historic Belmont Firehouse?  Aside from the many great businesses and services in the neighborhood, there is Sunnyside Park one block to the south, Lauralhurst Park about 6 blocks to the north, and the very historic Lone Fir Cemetery at SE 20th and Morrison Streets, about one mile away (it includes the Fireman's Cemetery).