Winnipeg, MB – The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to two fires last night.
Niakwa Road fire
At 9:17 p.m. on Wednesday, April 26, 2023, WFPS crews responded to a monitored fire alarm in a 10-storey high-rise in the 100 block of Niakwa Road.
Upon arrival to the scene, crews found heavy smoke in the building and then located a fire in the kitchen of one of the suites. The fire was declared under control at 9:43 p.m., with damage contained to the single suite. Crews used fans to ventilate smoke from the building.
Many residents self-evacuated from the building. Firefighters also assisted some with leaving their suites. Some residents were able to shelter in place. No injuries were reported.
No damage estimates are available at this time. Preliminary observations suggest the fire was accidental. Residents are reminded of the following safety tips to reduce the risk of kitchen fires:
- Always stay in the kitchen while cooking.
- Oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains should be kept away from the stovetop.
- Oil should be heated slowly. If cooking oil catches fire and the fire is small and manageable, use a kitchen fire extinguisher or cover the top with a metal lid.
- Never use water to put out an oil fire.
Woodlawn Street
At 10:54 p.m. on Wednesday, April 26, 2023, the WFPS responded to reports of a fire in a single-family bungalow in the 200 block of Woodlawn Street.
When crews arrived at the scene, they found smoke in the house. They investigated and found a fire involving a clothes dryer. The fire was declared under control at 11:07 p.m.
All occupants of the house safely self-evacuated prior to the arrival of crews. No injuries were reported.
Preliminary observations suggest the fire was accidental, caused by a malfunction in the operation of a clothes dryer. The risk of these types of fires can be reduced by following these important tips:
- Have your dryer installed and serviced by a professional to ensure it is in good working order.
- Do not use the dryer without a lint filter and always clean the filter after each load of laundry.
- Periodically check the venting system to ensure there is no lint buildup and it is not damaged, crushed, or restricted.
- Make sure the outdoor vent flap opens when the dryer is running.
- Never leave a dryer running when leaving your home.