Winnipeg, MB – The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to two structure fires and a large wildland fire yesterday.
Simcoe Street fire
At 8:08 p.m. on Sunday, April 26, 2026, the WFPS responded to reports of a fire in a vacant two-and-a-half storey residence in the 200 block of Simcoe Street.
When crews arrived at the scene, they found smoke and flames coming from the building. They initially launched a fire attack from the exterior. Once it was safe, they entered and transitioned to an interior fire attack. They declared the fire under control at 8:42 p.m.
Crews searched the building and no occupants were found. There were no injuries reported.
The fire is under investigation. Damage estimates are not available.
Transcona Bioreserve fire
At 5:45 p.m. on Sunday, April 26, 2026, the WFPS responded to reports of a vegetation fire in area of the Transcona Bioreserve Loop.
Upon arrival at the scene, crews found a grass and brush fire roughly 4000 square meters (one acre) in size.
Using handlines and specialized wildland firefighting equipment, they worked to contain and extinguish the fire. The WFPS drone was launched, and the images were used to direct crews to hotspots. The fire was declared under control at 6:24 p.m.
No injuries were reported. The incident remains under investigation.
Roberts Crescent fire
At 10:21 a.m. on Sunday, April 26, 2026, WFPS crews responded to reports of a fire in a single-family bungalow on Roberts Crescent.
When crews arrived at the scene, they found smoke in the house. They launched an interior fire attack, declaring the fire under control at 10:57 a.m.
Occupants safely evacuated the residence with their pets before crews arrived. No injuries were reported.
Damage estimates are not available. Preliminary observations suggest the fire was accidental.
Grass and Wildland Fire Prevention
In the Spring, WFPS often sees an increase in grass and wildland fires.
These fires are usually fast‑moving, wind‑driven ground fires that involve grass, brush, and dead plant material. In an average year, the WFPS responds to about 200 of these fires within city limits. That number increases during dry conditions. These fires can spread quickly and threaten homes, buildings, and property.
Residents can help prevent fires by following these rules and safety tips:
- Do not have an open‑air fire in a fire pit, even with a permit, when wind speeds or gusts exceed 25 km/h.
- Only burn clean, dry, untreated wood. Never burn yard waste, garbage, or scrap materials.
- Use only approved outdoor fire receptacles, such as fire pits, fireplaces, and barbecues.
- Make sure fire pits are enclosed on all sides and are equipped with a spark arrestor.
- Always keep a way to put the fire out close at hand, such as water or a fire extinguisher.
- Never throw cigarette butts into grass, vegetation, planter pots, or from vehicle windows.
- Talk to children about the dangers of starting fires and how quickly fires can spread.
Protecting your property:
Residents can also reduce the risk of fire damage by taking these steps around their home:
- Thin and prune vegetation. Remove brush, leaves, long grass, and other debris.
- Choose fire‑resistant plants and shrubs. Avoid plants that collect dry material or have papery bark.
- Water lawns, plants, and vegetation around your home, especially during dry weather.
- Store firewood at least 10 metres away from buildings, fences, or other structures.
- Place approved fire pits and receptacles in open areas, away from buildings and overhanging trees.
Following these steps helps protect your home, your neighbours, and the community from grass and wildland fires.
For more information visit: winnipeg.ca/wildlandfires