Winnipeg, MB – Through the early morning hours of Wednesday, August 23, 2023, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to two significant fires and a gas leak.
Henry Avenue fire
At 3:09 a.m., WFPS crews responded to a monitored fire alarm at a commercial/industrial recycling facility in the 1000 block of Henry Avenue.
When crews arrived to the scene, they found smoke in the building. A fire was located within recycled materials, and was kept under control by the building’s sprinkler system. Crews were quickly able to extinguish the remaining hot spots.
There was no one working at the facility at the time of the fire, and no injuries were reported.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. Damage estimates are not available.
Tweed Avenue fire
At 3:54 a.m., the WFPS responded to reports of a fire in a church in the 400 block of Tweed Avenue.
When crews arrived to the scene, they found heavy smoke and flames coming from the building. Due to the heavy fire conditions, crews were unable to enter the building. They fought the fire from the exterior using aerial ladders and handlines. Aerial and thermal imaging views from the WFPS drone were used to help direct water streams and locate hot spots. The fire was declared under control at 5:49 a.m.
A neighbouring home was temporarily evacuated as a precaution. One firefighter suffered an injury while on scene. They were transported to hospital in stable condition. No other injuries were reported.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. Damage estimates are not currently available; however, the building is partially collapsed and expected to be a complete loss.
Bellavista Crescent gas leak
At 5:36 a.m., the WFPS responded to reports of a potential gas leak in a single-family bungalow on Bellavista Crescent. Once on scene, crews determined the leak was significant and quickly established a safe perimeter around the residence.
Several neighbouring homes were temporarily evacuated.
Once Manitoba Hydro attended the scene and crimped the gas line, residents were able to return to their homes.
No injuries were reported.
Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service responds to fires on Henry Avenue and Tweed Avenue, gas leak on Bellavista Crescent
Released: August 23, 2023 at 7:16 a.m.