Winnipeg, MB – The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to three overnight structure fires.
Taylor Avenue fire
At 3:54 a.m. on Thursday, November 27, 2025, the WFPS responded to a monitored fire alarm in a 10-storey high-rise apartment building in the 1300 block of Taylor Avenue.
When firefighters arrived at the scene, they found heavy smoke in the building. They entered and launched an interior fire attack. The fire was declared under control at 4:11 a.m.
Some residents self-evacuated from the building. Some were able to shelter in place. No injuries were reported.
The fire was contained in the suite where it originated. Damage estimates are not available.
Preliminary observations suggest the fire was accidental, caused by an electrical failure.
College Avenue fire
At 11:48 p.m. on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, WFPS crews responded to reports of a fire in a one-and-a-half storey, single-family house in the 800 block of College Avenue.
Upon arrival at the scene, crews found heavy smoke in the house. Firefighters entered the house and attacked the fire from the interior. The fire was declared under control at 12:23 a.m.
The sole occupant of the home self-evacuated prior to the arrival of responders. They were assessed by paramedics and transported to hospital in stable condition.
Damage estimates are not available.
Preliminary observations suggest the cause of the fire was accidental and related to smoking.
Sargent Avenue fire
At 11:35 p.m. on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, WFPS crews responded to reports of a fire in a six-storey, high-rise apartment building in the 700 block of Sargent Avenue.
When crews arrived at the location, they found heavy smoke in the building and located a well-involved fire in one of the suites. They launched an interior fire attack, declaring the fire under control at 11:58 p.m.
Most residents were able to shelter in place in their suites or in the lobby of the building. No injuries were reported.
Fire damage was primarily contained to the suite where the fire originated. Other parts of the building sustained some smoke and water damage.
Preliminary observations suggest the cause of the fire was accidental and related to smoking.
Smoking and Home Fire Safety:
Residents should follow these simple steps to prevent fires:
- Use a proper ashtray or deep metal container to put out smoking materials. Place it on a sturdy surface away from anything that can burn.
- Never smoke in bed or on furniture that can catch fire, like couches or chairs.
- Stay alert when smoking. Don’t smoke if you’re tired or after taking medication or substances that make you drowsy.
- Make sure ashes and cigarette butts are completely out before throwing them away. Douse them in water or sand to be safe.
- Keep cigarettes, lighters, and matches away from children—store them in a locked cabinet if possible.
- Never throw cigarette butts from balconies, decks, car windows, or near grass, leaves, or brush.
- Don’t use plant pots as ashtrays. Potting soil contains materials that can burn. A cigarette can smolder for hours and ignite the pot, spreading fire to decks, balconies, or walls.