Winnipeg, MB – At 3:30 p.m. on Monday, January 31, 2022 the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to reports of a fire at the construction site of a four-storey condominium complex in the 700 block of Kimberly Avenue.
When crews arrived on-scene, they encountered a well-involved fire with heavy smoke and flames coming from the multi-unit residential building under construction. Crews immediately launched a defensive fire attack on the framed structure using aerial ladders and hose streams. A second, and then third alarm were called to increase the number of apparatus on-scene to assist in fire operations and to help ensure the safety of residents in the area.
Occupants from a home on Dowhan Crescent and those from two adjacent condo buildings on Kimberly Avenue self-evacuated or were evacuated with assistance from crews. Despite efforts by firefighters to protect the two condo buildings and a parking garage on the property, the fire extended to all three structures. After knocking down some of the flames, crews were able to access the two condo buildings to fight those fires offensively and keep the fire from destroying the buildings.
Firefighting operations remain ongoing at this time. No injuries have been reported.
With freezing rain, sleet, and now blowing snow, the weather created challenging conditions for firefighting with water, trucks, personal protective equipment, and tools freezing up quickly. Extra units are on scene, along with the WFPS Rehabilitation Unit, as crews need to be rotated in and out of operations frequently to protect them from the conditions.
Winnipeg Transit buses were deployed to the scene to provide shelter for evacuated residents. The City of Winnipeg’s Emergency Social Services also attended the scene to assist displaced residents in finding temporary accommodations. At this time, it is not known when residents from the two condo buildings will be able to access their suites. They are encouraged to connect with their insurance providers and reach out to their management company for updates.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. While no damage estimates are available at this time, the building under construction and the parking garage belonging to the neighbouring condo complex are considered total losses. The two condo buildings suffered extensive fire, water, and smoke damage.
Kimberly Avenue between Gateway Road and London Street will remain closed until crews complete their work on scene. Once roads re-open, drivers and pedestrians are asked to use caution in the area as water used to fight the fire has frozen and created slippery conditions. The City will be monitoring conditions and applying sand and de-icing agents as required to improve traction.
The WFPS thanks all partner agencies who assisted on the scene today, including the City’s Emergency Social Services, Public Works and Water and Waste departments, Winnipeg Police Service, Manitoba Hydro, and Shaw Cable. Thank you also to the Salvation Army’s mobile food truck for coming to the scene to provide refreshments for crews.