Winnipeg, MB – The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to two fires.
Toronto Street Fire
At 8:53 p.m. on Wednesday, August 31, 2022, the WFPS responded to reports of a fire in a vacant two-and-a-half storey, multi-family residence in the 600 block of Toronto Street.
Upon arrival on scene, crews encountered the structure engulfed in heavy smoke and flames. As it was not safe for them to enter the building, a defensive attack was launched using aerial ladders and handlines. Once some of the flames were knocked down, crews were able to make entry to the structure, transitioning to an offensive attack. The fire was declared under control at 10:49 p.m.
Crews completed a search of the structure and no occupants were found. Both neighbouring homes were evacuated as a precaution.
Three firefighters sustained injuries while fighting the fire. All three were assessed by paramedics and transported to hospital in stable condition for further evaluation.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. Damage estimates are not available at this time but the structure sustained significant fire, smoke, and water damage. One of the neighbouring homes also sustained exposure damage.
Elgin Avenue Fire
At 12:53 a.m. on Thursday, September 1, 2022, WFPS responded to reports of a fire in a two-storey duplex in the 500 block of Elgin Avenue.
When crews arrived at the scene they found smoke coming from the structure. An offensive attack was launched and the fire was declared under control at 1:18 a.m.
All occupants safely self-evacuated prior to the arrival of crews. No injuries were reported. The City’s Emergency Social Services were called to assist the displaced residents in finding temporary accommodations.
Preliminary observations suggest the fire was accidental. Damage estimates are not available at this time.