Winnipeg, MB – The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to two significant fires.
Main Street Fire
At 10:41 p.m. on Tuesday, December 21, 2021 the WFPS responded to reports of a fire in a 11-storey apartment building in the 800 block of Main Street.
When crews arrived on scene, they encountered heavy smoke throughout several floors of the building. Due to the potential for high life hazards when dealing with a high-rise structure, a second alarm was called which increased the number of apparatus on scene. An offensive attack was launched and the fire was declared under control at 11:40 p.m.
Some occupants of the building were temporarily evacuated while some were able to shelter in place. Crews assisted several residents out of the building. On-scene paramedics assessed several residents, but no transports to hospital were required. No other injuries were reported.
Occupants were sheltered on a Winnipeg Transit bus until the fire was extinguished and smoke was ventilated from the building. The City of Winnipeg’s Emergency Social Services was called to assist those who were displaced in finding temporary accommodations.
Significant fire damage was contained to a single suite, where the fire originated. There was some water damage in several additional suites and common areas. Damage estimates are not available at this time.
Preliminary observations suggest the fire was accidental, caused by the improper disposal of a cigarette. Residents are reminded that smoking material should always be extinguished in an ashtray or deep metal container. Butts should also never be thrown from balconies, car windows, or disposed of near any vegetation such as grass or brush.
College Avenue Fire
At 12:16 a.m. on Wednesday, December 22, 2021, WFPS responded to reports of a fire in a one-and-a-half storey house in the 400 block of College Avenue.
Upon arrival at the scene, crews found heavy smoke and flames coming from the house. An offensive attack was launched, but due to deteriorating conditions, crews were forced to exit the building and transition to a defensive attack. Crews remain on scene fighting this fire at this time.
Occupants of the house self-evacuated prior to the arrival of crews. Residents of a neighbouring house have been temporarily evacuated as a precaution. No injuries have been reported. The City’s Emergency Social Services was called to the displaced residents in finding temporary accommodations.
The cause of the fire will be under investigation. No damage estimates will be available but the house is expected to be a complete loss.
Crews will be at this scene throughout the morning. As such there are local traffic impacts in effect and residents are asked to avoid the area. Roads will reopen to traffic once crews complete their work on scene. Once open, drivers should use caution in this area, as water used to fight the fire will be frozen. The City is monitoring conditions and will be applying sand and de-icing agents as required.