Winnipeg, MB – The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to two fires between Wednesday evening and Thursday morning.
Talbot Avenue Fire
At 9:31 p.m. on Wednesday, December 29, 2021, the WFPS responded to reports of a fire in a two-storey duplex in the 600 block of Talbot Avenue.
When crews arrived on-scene, they found flames coming from the structure. They launched an offensive attack, declaring the fire under control at 10 p.m.
Occupants of the duplex self-evacuated prior to crew arrival. One firefighter sustained minor injuries but did not require transport to hospital. No other injuries were reported. Crews located two cats on-scene that had succumbed to fire-related injuries.
The City of Winnipeg’s Emergency Social Services was called to assist residents in finding temporary accommodations.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. One unit suffered fire and smoke damage, while the other unit sustained smoke damage. No damage estimates are available.
Beresford Avenue Fire
At 9:51 p.m. on Wednesday, December 29, 2021, the WFPS responded to reports of a fire in a two-and-a-half-storey, single-family house in the 600 block of Beresford Avenue.
Once on-scene, crews encountered a well-involved fire and heavy smoke coming from the building. They launched an offensive attack, knocking down some of the flames before crews were forced to exit the building due to safety concerns.
Crews attacked the fire defensively and protected exposures with multiple hand lines while an aerial ladder targeted the roof. A collapse zone was established as a result of structural integrity concerns. Crews were frequently rotated due to the extreme cold.
All occupants of the house self-evacuated prior to crew arrival. Residents of a neighbouring home were evacuated as a precaution. No injuries were reported.
No damage estimates are available, though the home is expected to be a complete loss. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Crews are expected to be on-scene for an extended period of time. Residents are reminded that the area is taped off and vehicles are not allowed on-scene due to safety concerns and to help facilitate operations.