Winnipeg, MB – At 1:20 p.m. on Saturday, July 29, 2023, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to reports of a house fire in the 100 block of Ralph Avenue East.
At the scene, crews saw heavy smoke and flames coming from the house. Firefighters attacked the fire from the inside, declaring it under control at 1:51 p.m.
No injuries were reported. The City of Winnipeg’s Emergency Social Services (ESS) team responded to the scene to help one person find temporary housing.
No damage estimates are available. Preliminary observations suggest the cause of the fire was accidental and related to charging lithium-ion batteries.
To avoid a fire caused by lithium-ion batteries, follow these tips:
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Only use the battery designed for the device, with the charging cord it comes with.
- Never charge a device on a bed, couch or other flammable surface.
- Keep batteries at room temperature.
- Store batteries far away from anything that can catch fire.
- Have working smoke alarms on every floor and near sleeping areas.
- Practice a home escape plan.