Winnipeg, MB – The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to two fires this evening and multiple fire alarms activated by the extreme heat conditions.
Lombard Avenue Fire
At 7:30 p.m. on July 17, 2022, the WFPS responded to a monitored alarm in the Fairmont Hotel on Portage Avenue East. Due to the potential for high life hazards when dealing with a large structure, a second alarm was called which increased the number of apparatus on scene.
When crews arrived on scene, they encountered smoke within the hotel and the concourse below hotel and the Richardson Building. An investigation was launched and it was eventually determined the smoke was coming from the underground concourse. A fire was located within one of the restaurants (with an address on Lombard Avenue East) and crews quickly declared it under control.
Crews were rotated in and out of operations frequently due to the extreme heat conditions. One firefighter was assessed and treated by on-scene paramedics for heat-related symptoms but they did not require transport to hospital. No further injuries were reported.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. Damage estimates are not available at this time.
Haggart Avenue Fire
At 7:51 p.m. on July 17, 2022, the WFPS responded to reports of a fire in a commercial structure in the 0 to 100 block of Haggart Avenue.
When crews arrived on scene, they found a fire in a bin on the exterior of building.The fire was quickly declared under control.
Crews completed a search of the building and no occupants were found. No injuries were reported.
Preliminary observations suggest the fire was accidental, caused by a malfunctioning compactor. Damage estimates are not available at this time.