Winnipeg, MB – The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to two fires between Sunday evening and early Monday morning.
River Avenue Fire
At 6:47 p.m. on Sunday, September 19, 2021, WFPS responded to reports of a fire in a three-storey, apartment building in the 200 block of River Avenue.
When crews arrived on-scene, they encountered heavy smoke coming from the building. They launched an offensive attack, declaring the fire under control at 7:01 p.m.
Most occupants safely self-evacuated the building. Three residents were trapped and required rescue by crews. In total four occupants were assessed and treated on-scene by paramedics. Two of them were transported to hospital in stable condition. No other injuries were reported.
Crews located one dog that sustained injuries from the fire. The pet was transported by its owner to a veterinary clinic. A number of hamsters were also safely removed from the building.
A number of suites sustained fire, smoke and water damage. The City of Winnipeg’s Emergency Social Services was called to assist displaced occupants in finding alternate accommodations until their suites are safe for re-occupancy.
No damage estimates are available at this time.
Preliminary observations suggest the fire was accidental, caused by unattended cooking. Residents are reminded of the following safety tips to avoid kitchen fires:
- Always stay in the kitchen while cooking.
- Oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains should be kept away from the stovetop.
- Oil should be heated slowly. If cooking oil catches fire and the fire is small and manageable, use a kitchen fire extinguisher or cover the top with a metal lid.
- Never use water to put out an oil fire.
Selkirk Avenue Fire
At 2:13 a.m. on Monday, September 20, 2021, WFPS responded to reports of a fire in a single-storey vacant house in the 900 block of Selkirk Avenue.
When crews arrived, they were met with heavy smoke and flames. They launched an offensive attack, declaring the fire under control at 2:40 a.m.
A search of the building was completed and no occupants were found. Occupants of both neighbouring homes were evacuated. No injuries were reported.
The house suffered extensive fire, smoke and water damage. It had been damaged previously by a fire in April 2021. One neighbouring home also sustained moderate damage from fire extension. The City’s Emergency Social Services were notified to assist the residents in finding alternate accommodations until the house is safe for re-occupancy.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. No damage estimates are available at this time.