Winnipeg, MB – At 7:06 p.m. on Monday, March 21, 2022 the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service responded to an automatic alarm at a 15-storey apartment complex in the 0 to 100 block of University Crescent. A second alarm was called, increasing the number of apparatus and WFPS crew members on-scene, due to the potential for high life hazards when dealing with a high-rise structure.
When crews arrived on-scene, the encountered smoke and fire coming from a suite in the east tower. They launched an offensive attack, containing the fire to the suite of origin and declaring it under control at 7:53 p.m.
Occupants on the floor of the fire suite self-evacuated prior to crew arrival. Other residents self-evacuated or sheltered in place if it was safe to do so.
Paramedics assessed two patients on-scene and transported them to hospital in stable condition. No other injuries have been reported at this time.
A number of Winnipeg Transit buses were redeployed as a precautionary measure to provide shelter to displaced residents. Most residents were able to return to their suites once crews ventilated the building. The City of Winnipeg’s Emergency Social Services was called to assist two residents in finding temporary accommodations.
Fire damage was contained to the suite of origin, while some suites and hallway areas suffered water damage. The cause of the fire is under investigation and no damage estimates are available at this time.