Winnipeg, MB – At 10:23 a.m. on Friday, January 14, 2022 the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service responded to reports of a fire in a two-storey multi-family residential structure in the 400 block of Maryland Street.
Once on-scene, crews encountered heavy smoke and flames coming from a suite in the structure. Crews entered the building to fight the fire, with exterior support from an aerial ladder and water streams. The fire was declared under control at 12:18 p.m., though crews were on-scene for an extended period of time addressing hot spots.
The suite of origin was unoccupied at the time of the fire. Some occupants self-evacuated prior to crew arrival, while others were assisted by firefighters in safely exiting the building. Residents sheltered-in-place at a nearby church. No injuries were reported.
Maryland Street was closed between Ellice Avenue and St. Matthews Avenue to facilitate fire operations. The east curb lane remains closed at this time. As water used to fight the fire froze and created slippery conditions, the City is applying sand and de-icing agents to roadways and sidewalks to improve traction. Crews will continue to monitor road conditions as needed. Drivers and pedestrians are asked to use caution in the area.
While the cause of the fire is under investigation, the building suffered major and extensive damage to the attic and suites. No damage estimates are available at this time.