On August 27, 2023, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to two fires.
Blake Street
At 10:49 a.m., WFPS responded to reports of a fire in an apartment complex in the 300 block of Blake Street.
At the scene, crews saw smoke in the building. Firefighters attacked the fire from the inside, declaring it under control at 11:04 a.m.
All occupants safely self-evacuated before crews arrived. Paramedics treated one person on scene and transported them to hospital in stable condition.
No damage estimates are available. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Edmonton Street
At 1:01 p.m., WFPS responded to reports of a fire in a high-rise building in the 200 block of Edmonton Street. Due to the life safety risks associated with a high-rise building, crews called a second alarm, and more crews and apparatus responded to the scene.
At the scene, the building’s sprinkler system was engaged. Firefighters attacked the fire from inside the building, declaring it under control within 45 minutes.
All affected occupants safely self-evacuated. No injuries were reported. The City of Winnipeg’s Emergency Social Services (ESS) team responded to the scene to help displaced residents find temporary accommodation. A Winnipeg Transit bus was provided for temporary shelter.
No damage estimates are available. Preliminary observations suggest the cause of the fire was accidental and related to cooking.
To avoid a fire, remember these tips:
- Always stay in the kitchen while cooking. Turn off stove burners when leaving the kitchen, even for a short time.
- Keep anything that can catch fire away from the stovetop, including oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains.
- Heat oil slowly. If cooking oil catches fire and the fire is small and manageable, use a kitchen fire extinguisher or cover the pot with a metal lid. Never use water to put out an oil fire.
- Learn about the cooking safety and how to prevent a fire in your kitchen.
- Have an escape plan for your home and practice it often.