Winnipeg, MB – At 6:22 a.m. on Thursday, October 29, 2026, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service responded to reports of a fire in a two-storey multi-family residence in the 200 block of Dollard Boulevard.
When crews arrived at the scene, they found smoke coming from the building. Firefighters entered and launched an interior fire attack. They brought the fire under control at 6:43 a.m. The fire was contained in the suite where it originated.
All occupants of the building self-evacuated prior to the arrival of crews. Paramedics assessed two individuals at the scene and transported both of them to hospital in stable condition. No other injuries were reported.
Damage estimates are not available. Preliminary findings indicate the fire was accidental and likely caused by the careless disposal of smoking materials.
We are reminding everyone to follow these important safety tips to help prevent smoking-related fires:
- Always dispose of smoking materials in a proper ashtray or deep metal container. Place the container on a stable surface, well away from anything that can burn.
- Never smoke in bed or on surfaces that can easily catch fire, such as upholstered furniture.
- Stay alert while smoking. Do not smoke if you feel drowsy or have taken medication or substances that may affect your awareness.
- Make sure ashes and cigarette butts are completely extinguished before disposal. Soak them in water or sand to ensure they are fully out.
- Keep cigarettes, lighters, matches, and other smoking materials out of the reach of children and store them securely.
- Never discard cigarette butts from balconies, decks, or vehicle windows. Do not throw them into grass, leaves, brush, or other vegetation where they can start a fire.
- Do not use plant pots as ashtrays. Potting soil often contains combustible materials such as peat moss and wood products. A cigarette butt can smoulder for hours, generating enough heat to crack the container and allow oxygen to fuel a fire. The fire can then spread to nearby structures such as decks, balconies, or walls.