Winnipeg, MB – At 12:07 a.m. on February 24, 2020, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service responded to reports of a fire in a two-storey home in the 400 block of de la Morenie Street. Upon arrival on scene, crews encountered smoke coming from the basement. An offensive attack was launched and the fire was declared under control at 12:45 a.m.
All occupants of the home safely self-evacuated after being alerted to the fire by a working smoke alarm. No injuries were reported.
No damage estimates are available at this time. Observations suggest the cause of the fire was accidental, due to the improper storage of batteries.
Residents are cautioned to practice proper battery storage by keeping batteries in a cool, dry place at normal room temperature. Loose batteries - even used or dead ones - should be kept in their proper packaging. They should never be stored in drawers or boxes next to metal objects like coins, paper clips, etc. as they can short-circuit the battery, leading to high heat or leakage.