Winnipeg, MB – At 11:20 a.m. on Thursday, February 16, 2023, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to a fire in a three-storey apartment building in the 700 block of Sargent Avenue. The fire was discovered by a fire crew that was on its way to another call for service. As they were driving down Sargent Avenue, they noticed smoke and flames coming from the building. Additional crews were dispatched.
Crews entered the structure and fought the fire from inside. The fire was declared under control at 11:38 a.m. Damage was primarily contained to the suite where the fire originated.
A full evacuation of the building was not required. Many residents were able to shelter in place in their suites. A Winnipeg Transit bus was deployed to the scene to provide shelter to those who did self-evacuate. No injuries were reported.
The City’s Emergency Social Services team assisted one displaced resident in finding temporary accommodations.
Residents are asked to exercise caution in the area, as water used to fight the fire has frozen and created slippery conditions.
The City will be monitoring conditions and applying sand and de-icing agents to roadways and sidewalks as required to improve traction.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. Damage estimates are not available.