Portland firefighters were able to prevent a brush fire Thursday afternoon near a Munjoy Hill playground from spreading to two nearby apartment buildings in one of Portland’s most densely populated neighborhoods, said Deputy Fire Chief Robert Thompson.

Thompson said firefighters and police were told by witnesses that four children – all elementary school age – were seen running from the Mountfort Street playground near where the fire started. Portland police have been given the names of the children and are investigating, Thompson said.

“The fire was very close to an apartment building at the top of the hill. This fire was a recipe for disaster,” Thompson said. “The conditions were very dry and with a strong wind whipping in off the (Casco) bay, we are lucky one of those buildings didn’t catch on fire.”

The Munjoy Hill fire station is only four blocks from the playground and there was a fire hydrant near the fire. More than 20 Portland firefighters responded.

No injuries were reported and the fire, which was reported around 4 p.m., was brought under control in 50 minutes.

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