Winnipeg, MB – At 11:13 p.m. on August 13, 2019, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to an automatic alarm at an eight-storey apartment tower in the 100 block of Hendon Avenue. Once on scene, crews determined there was heavy smoke coming from a suite on the seventh floor. A second alarm was called, increasing the number of apparatus and WFPS crew members on the scene, due to the potential for high life hazards when dealing with an occupied apartment block. Crews initiated an offensive attack and at 11:55 p.m. the fire was declared under control. Fire damage was contained to the suite of origin.
All occupants of the complex had self-evacuated prior to the arrival of crews, after hearing the building’s smoke alarm. Paramedic crews on scene assessed one individual but were not required to transport anyone to hospital.
A Winnipeg Transit bus attended the scene, providing shelter for evacuees while crews completed their work. All occupants were able to return to their suites with the exception of those living in the suite where the fire originated.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. No damage estimates are available at this time.
At 5:33 a.m. on August 14, 2019, WFPS responded to reports of a fire in a commercial strip mall in the 800 block of McLeod Avenue. Upon arrival at the address, crews encountered heavy smoke coming from one of the restaurants. An offensive attack was launched and by 5:57 a.m. had the fire declared under control.
The unit where the fire originated suffered significant fire, smoke and water damage. One neighbouring unit also sustained water damage.
No occupants were in the building at the time of the fire. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation with no damage estimates yet available.