Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service responds to fires on Athlone Drive and Elkhorn Street

Released: January 26, 2021 at 11:22 p.m.

Winnipeg, MB – At 10:08 a.m. on Tuesday, January 26, 2021, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to reports of a fire in a single-storey home in the 0-100 block of Athlone Drive.

When crews arrived on scene, they encountered smoke coming from the home. Crews launched an offensive attack, declaring the fire under control at 10:46 a.m.

All occupants safely self-evacuated before crews arrived. No injuries were reported.

Preliminary observations suggest the cause of the fire was accidental and related to a vehicle’s block heater that was plugged into an outlet with an extension cord. Residents are reminded of these safety tips:

  • Check your block heater and extension cords for frays, cracks or damage before you plug in your vehicle. If the extension cord or block heater cord is damaged, replace it as soon as possible.
  • Avoid backing up with the cord still plugged in, which can damage the plug.
  • Do not plug in your vehicle inside a garage or sheltered building, as a fire can start in the garage and quickly spread to other structures or your home, causing damage and putting people in danger.

Elkhorn Street

At 10:39 a.m., the WFPS responded to reports of a fire in a vacant house in the 0-100 block of Elkhorn Street. When crews arrived on scene, they encountered smoke coming from the house.

Crews launched an offensive attack, declaring the fire under control at 11:14 a.m. Crews searched the home and confirmed there was no one inside. No injuries were reported. No damage estimates are available. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

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