Winnipeg, MB – At 1:26 a.m. on Wednesday, June 1, 2022, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service responded to a fire alarm at a seven-storey, multi-residential building in the 200 block of Dufferin Avenue.
When crews arrived on-scene, they discovered unsafe levels of carbon monoxide and confirmed readings of between 20 and 80 parts per million (ppm) on at least two floors.
Crews quickly initiated an evacuation of the entire complex, calling in extra units to facilitate the process. Residents self-evacuated or were assisted by crews in safely evacuating the building. No injuries were reported and no one reported feeling ill.
Winnipeg Transit was called to the scene to provide temporary shelter to displaced residents.
Manitoba Hydro attended the scene and located and addressed the source of the leak in a mechanical room.
Fire crews ventilated the building thoroughly, allowing residents to return to their suites once carbon monoxide readings dropped to below 4 ppm.
Carbon monoxide is an extremely dangerous colourless, odourless, tasteless gas produced by the incomplete combustion of fuels. Exposure can be deadly. WFPS reminds residents that carbon monoxide poisoning causes flu-like symptoms, including nausea, dizziness, confusions, vision and hearing loss, but no fever.
If you suspect carbon monoxide in your home, exit immediately and call 9-1-1. To stay safe, consider installing a carbon monoxide alarm on every floor of your home.