Winnipeg, MB – The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to two fires overnight, including a second alarm fire in a McGregor Street high-rise.
McGregor Street fire
At 1:20 a.m. on Thursday, February 2, 2023, the WFPS responded to reports of a fire in the St. Josaphat Selo-Villa on McGregor Street. The building is an eight-storey high-rise for residents aged 55+.
Multiple 9-1-1 calls were received indicating there were occupants trapped in the building due to heavy smoke in the hallways. Reports also indicated that multiple residents with disabilities required assistance in evacuating.
Due to the potential for high life hazards when dealing with a large structure, a second alarm was called which increased the number of crews on scene.
When crews arrived at the scene, they found heavy smoke and flames coming from the building. Crews entered the building to fight the fire and initiate rescues of those trapped in their suites. Some residents were assisted down the stairs by firefighters. Others were rescued from exterior windows using ground ladders. An aerial ladder firetruck was used to help extinguish the fire.
Paramedics assessed approximately 25 residents at the scene. Six patients were transported to hospital by ambulance, all in stable condition. There were no injuries to WFPS members reported.
The fire was declared under control at 2:09 a.m. Crews then worked to extinguish hot spots and ventilate smoke from the building. Most fire damage was contained to a third-floor suite, while several other areas of the building sustained smoke and water damage.
Winnipeg Transit deployed buses to the scene to provide shelter for evacuees. The City of Winnipeg’s Emergency Social Services team was also deployed to the scene to assist approximately 15 displaced residents in finding temporary accommodations.
Damage estimates are not available at this time. Preliminary observations suggest the fire was accidental, caused by an electrical issue.
The freezing temperatures created challenging conditions for firefighters, with the area around the scene becoming ice-covered and slippery. Crews were rotated in and out of operations as required to provide them with breaks from the cold.
The City will be monitoring conditions and applying sand and de-icing agents to roadways and sidewalks as required to improve traction.
Dumoulin Street fire
At 3:08 a.m. on Thursday, February 2, 2023, WFPS responded to reports of a fire in a four-unit, multi-family residence in the 200 block of Dumoulin Street.
Once on scene, crews found smoke in the building. A resident from the building reported they had extinguished a fire in their suite. Crews worked to ensure all hot spots were extinguished and ventilated smoke from the building.
One resident was assessed by paramedics at the scene and transported to hospital in stable condition. No other injuries were reported.
Damage to the suite was minimal. The fire is believed to be accidental, caused by the improper use of a candle. Residents are reminded to take special care when using candles, always following these safety tips:
- Never leave lit candles unattended.
- 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.
- Always keep candles, matches and lighters out of the reach of children.