Winnipeg, MB – The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to two fires this afternoon.
Manitoba Avenue fire
At 3:37 p.m., the WFPS responded to reports of a fire in a vacant two-storey house in the 400 block of Manitoba Avenue.
When crews arrived on-scene, they encountered heavy smoke and flames coming from the structure. A defensive attack was initially launched with crews working to protect neighbouring homes. After knocking down some of the flames, they were able to transition to an offensive fire attack. The fire was declared under control at 4:32 p.m.
Crews completed a search of the structure and no occupants were found. One neighbouring home was temporarily evacuated as a precaution. No injuries were reported.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. No damage estimates are available at this time.
Higgins Avenue fire
At 3:12 p.m., the WFPS responded to a monitored alarm at a three-storey hotel in the 100 block of Higgins Avenue.
Upon arrival at the scene, crews found smoke coming from a single suite. An offensive attack was launched and the fire was quickly brought under control, aided by the building’s sprinkler system.
All occupants of the hotel safely self-evacuated. Winnipeg Transit buses were deployed to provide temporary shelter to the evacuees. No injuries were reported.
Fire damage was minimal, however, the building sustained significant water damage. The City of Winnipeg’s Emergency Social Services was deployed to support approximately 30 residents in finding alternate accommodations.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. Damage estimates are not available at this time.