Winnipeg, MB – At 6:04 p.m. on December 15, 2019, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service responded to reports of a fire in a one-and-a-half-storey, single-family home in the 100 block of Pilgrim Avenue. Upon arrival on scene, crews encountered smoke coming from the home. An interior, offensive attack was launched to extinguish the fire which had extended into the attic of the home. It was declared under control at 6:41 p.m.
All occupants of the home had self-evacuated prior to the arrival of crews. No injuries were reported. The home suffered significant smoke, fire and water damage.
The cause of the fire was determined to be accidental, originating with the wood-burning fireplace and chimney. Homeowners are reminded to have wood burning fireplaces, woodstoves and chimneys cleaned and inspected annually by a qualified professional. Fires can occur when stray sparks or high temperatures ignite creosote build-up in a chimney.