Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service responds to a carbon monoxide incident and a house fire

Released: December 15, 2020 at 8:20 a.m.

Winnipeg, MB – At 10:13 p.m. on Monday, December 14, 2020, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to reports of a smell of gas and an alarm sounding in a four-storey apartment building in the 2300 block of McGillivray Boulevard.

When crews arrived on scene, they ensured all occupants had safely evacuated. Crews used a detector inside the building and confirmed the presence of carbon monoxide, with readings between 15-21 parts per million (ppm) at various locations in the building. Crews ventilated the building and Manitoba Hydro responded and repaired the problem, which was related to the building’s boiler.

All occupants were able to return to their suites. No injuries were reported.

WFPS reminds residents about the extreme danger of carbon monoxide, which is a colourless, odourless, tasteless gas produced by the combustion process. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are flu-like and include nausea, dizziness, confusion, vision and hearing loss, but no fever.

To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:

  • Never idle vehicles in an attached garage, even if the door is open.
  • Have fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, wood-burning fireplaces, and gas dryers cleaned and checked annually by a qualified service technician.
  • Ensure all fresh air intake vents, exhaust vents, and chimneys are clear of snow, insulation, leaves, bird nests, lint, and debris.
  • Make sure wood stoves are properly installed and vented.
  • Don’t operate gasoline-powered engines, charcoal or propane barbecues or grills, kerosene stoves, or propane heaters indoors or in enclosed spaces.

Residents are strongly encouraged to install a carbon monoxide alarm on every floor of their home. If you suspect carbon monoxide in your home, exit immediately, and call 911.

Redwood Avenue

At 3:44 a.m., on Tuesday, December 15, 2020, the WFPS responded to reports of a fire in a vacant two-storey house in the 600 block of Redwood Avenue.

When crews arrived, they encountered smoke coming from the house. Crews launched an offensive attack, declaring the fire under control at 4:08 a.m.

Crews searched the building and no occupants were located. No injuries were reported.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. No damage estimates are available at this time.

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