Winnipeg, MB – At 10:34 a.m. on Saturday, February 3, 2024, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to reports of a fire in a two-storey, multi-family residence in the 400 block of Maryland Street.
When crews arrived on scene, they found smoke coming from the structure. Crews located a fire involving the clothing dryer. It was quickly extinguished.
All occupants of the structure safely self-evacuated. No injuries were reported.
Preliminary observations suggest the fire was accidental, caused by a malfunction in the operation of a clothes dryer.
The risk of these types of fires can be reduced by following these important tips:
- Have your dryer installed and serviced by a professional to ensure it is in good working order.
- Do not use the dryer without a lint filter and always clean the filter after each load of laundry.
- Periodically check the venting system to ensure there is no lint buildup and it is not damaged, crushed, or restricted.
- Make sure the outdoor vent flap opens when the dryer is running.
- Never leave a dryer running when leaving your home.