Winnipeg, MB – At 6:40 a.m. on Thursday, August 18, 2022, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to reports of a fire in a single-family bungalow in the 100 block of Matheson Avenue East.
When crews arrived on scene, they found a well-involved fire with smoke coming from the house. An offensive attack was launched and firefighters deployed a Flameguard X-Tinguish Fire Suppression Tool, an aerosol device that reduces temperatures and suppresses flames allowing for safer access. The device could not overcome the advanced fire conditions, and with quickly deteriorating conditions, crews were forced to exit the structure and transition to a defensive attack using handlines to apply water to the fire.
Due to significant fire, smoke and water damage, the house has been declared a complete loss. Heavy equipment is being deployed to the scene to demolish the structure in order for crews to access hotspots. It is expected that crews will be on scene well into the afternoon.
There were no occupants home at the time of the fire. No injuries were reported at the scene.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. Damage estimates are not available at this time.
While responding to the fire, a WFPS fire engine was involved in a collision near the intersection of Main Street and Higgins Avenue. Another unit was dispatched to the fire and additional WFPS crews responded to the motor vehicle collision scene.
The sole occupant of the passenger vehicle involved was extricated by WFPS crews. They were assessed by paramedics and transported to hospital in stable condition. All WFPS members involved in the collision were uninjured. The incident is under investigation by the Winnipeg Police Service.