Winnipeg, MB – At 5 p.m. on Thursday, April 8, 2021, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to reports of a fire in a two-storey home in the 300 block of Aikins Street.
When crews arrived on scene, they encountered smoke coming from the home. An offensive attack was launched and the fire was declared under control at 5:14 p.m.
All occupants safely self-evacuated before WFPS arrived. No injuries were reported. A cat escaped the residence and has not yet been located in the neighbourhood. Residents are asked to contact the Winnipeg Humane Society if they find a lost black cat in the area.
Preliminary observations suggest a malfunction in the operation of the dryer as the cause of this fire. Residents can reduce the risk of these types of fires by following these important tips:
- Have your dryer installed and serviced by a professional to ensure it is in good working order.
- Do not use the dryer without a lint filter and always clean the filter after each load of laundry.
- Periodically check the venting system to ensure there is no lint buildup and it is not damaged, crushed or restricted.
- Make sure the outdoor vent flap opens when the dryer is running.
- Never leave a dryer running when leaving your home.