Winnipeg, MB – At 8:06 p.m. on March 10, 2020, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to reports of a fire in a three-storey converted residential dwelling in the 300 block of Burrows Avenue. Once on scene, crews found heavy smoke and flames coming from the structure and launched an interior offensive attack. Conditions deteriorated quickly and they were forced to exit the home and transition to a defensive attack using aerial ladder trucks.
Most occupants of the building self-evacuated and those still inside when crews arrived were helped out to safety. Crews were able to complete a search of the building before transitioning to an exterior attack and in doing so located five cats. The cats were brought to safety and reunited with their owners. At this time, no injuries have been reported.
Crews expect to be on scene fighting this fire through the night. Once extinguishment is complete, the cause of the fire will be under investigation. While no damage estimate is available at this time, the home suffered significant smoke, fire and water damage and is likely to be considered a complete loss.
At 9:03 p.m. on March 10, the WFPS responded to reports of a fire in a temporary encampment near the intersection of Henry Avenue and Martha Street. Upon arrival on scene, crews found several tents and a utility pole engulfed in fire. An attack was launched and the fire was quickly brought under control.
All occupants of the tents self-evacuated with the help of Winnipeg Police Service members who were on scene. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.