At 5:07 p.m. on Monday, March 18, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to reports of fire in a two-storey house in the 600 block of Toronto Street.
When crews arrived, they found smoke coming from the structure. They entered, launched an interior fire attack, and quickly put the fire out, declaring it under control at 5:24 p.m.
Residents were able to safely self-evacuate before WFPS crews arrived. No injuries were reported.
Most of the damage was contained to the room where the fire started. The fire is believed to be accidental, caused by a candle.
Residents are reminded to take special care when using candles, always following these safety tips:
- Never leave lit candles unattended.
- Always keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.
- Never dispose of candles in the trash until the wax has hardened and the wick is no longer hot.
- Use non-combustible candleholders and place them on a firm, non-slip surface.
- Avoid burning candles in drafty areas to prevent uneven burning and wax dripping.
- Extinguish a candle when it burns down to within two inches of its holder or base.
- Keep candles away from any flammable materials, decorations, curtains, or other combustible material like bedding or cushions.
- Keep candle wicks trimmed to half an inch and remove excess wax before storage. Long, crooked wicks can cause uneven burning and wax drippings.