Winnipeg, MB – The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service responded to two fires since last evening.
Forbes Road
At 8:27 p.m. on Monday, March 15, WFPS responded to reports of a grass fire in the 400 block of Forbes Road.
When crews arrived on scene they encountered a large area of grass burning, approximately 75 feet in length, and spreading rapidly. An attack was launched using specialized wildland-urban interface equipment, including the WFPS Bisons and the fire was quickly brought under control.
No injuries or damage to structures were reported.
The grass fire was caused by a bonfire that grew out of control.
This fire was the first significant grass fire of the year in Winnipeg. Every year grass and wildland fires cause significant damage to green spaces and required many firefighters to extinguish them and to protect neighbouring properties at-risk. Due to dryer than average conditions this spring, WFPS expects the risk of these types of fires to be higher than normal. As such, it’s imperative that residents be vigilant to help prevent grass and wildland fires altogether by following these tips:
- When wind speeds are greater than 25 km/h, permitted fire activities such as open fires, fire pits, and fireworks are not allowed, regardless of whether or not there is a fire ban in place.
- Ensure you have a permit from the City of Winnipeg for any open-air fires.
- All fires in approved fire pits and/or burn barrels must be kept away from structures and trees. The pits or barrels must have a spark arrestor and fires must be at least 10 feet away from any combustibles.
- Never leave a fire unattended.
- Always have a means to extinguish your fire readily available.
- All firewood piles should be kept away from homes or other structures.
- Never dispose of cigarettes out of car windows or while walking on outdoor paths because they can smolder and start a fire.
Alfred Avenue
At 8:14 a.m. on Tuesday, March 16, the WFPS responded to reports of a fire in one-and-a-half-storey home in the first 600 block of Alfred Avenue.
Upon arrival on scene, crews encountered smoke coming from the house and launched an offensive attack. The fire was declared under control at 8:44 a.m.
All occupants of the house safely self-evacuated prior to the arrival of crews. No injuries were reported. Two cats were located in the home deceased.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. Damage estimates are not available at this time.