Winnipeg, MB – The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to two structure fires on Sunday, January 14, 2024.
Toronto Street fire
At approximately 3:31 a.m., the WFPS responded to reports of a fire in a two-and-a-half-storey house in the 700 block of Toronto Street.
When crews arrived to the scene, they found heavy smoke and flames coming from the structure. A defensive fire attack was launched. Once fire conditions improved, crews were able to enter the structure to complete extinguishment of the fire. The fire was declared under control at 6:09 a.m.
A search of the building was completed and no occupants were found. No injuries were reported.
The fire is under investigation, and damage estimates are not available at this time.
Rex Avenue fire
At approximately 11:20 a.m., crews responded to reports of a fire in a two-and-a-half-storey multi-family home in the 100 block of Rex Avenue.
When crews arrived, they found smoke and flames coming from the house, and initially launched an interior fire attack. Shifting conditions meant that crews had to exit the structure to fight the fire until it was safe enough to reenter it.
All occupants of the house safely self-evacuated. Neighbouring homes were also evacuated as a precaution. One firefighter sustained a minor injury and was treated by on-scene paramedics. No other injuries have been reported at this time.
The fire was declared under control at 2:37 p.m.
It’s anticipated that crews will be on scene throughout the afternoon and into the evening extinguishing hotspots.
The fire is under investigation and damage estimates are not available at this time. The home suffered significant smoke, fire, and water damage and is expected to be a complete loss.