Winnipeg, MB – The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to two structure fires last night.
Stella Avenue fire
At 9:40 p.m. on Friday, August 16, 2024, the WFPS responded to reports of a fire in a vacant residence in the 600 block of Stella Avenue.
When crews arrived at the scene, they found heavy smoke and flames coming from the structure. Due to the dangerous conditions, crews were unable to enter the building. They launched a defensive fire attack from the exterior. The fire was declared under control at 11:47 p.m.
The structure suffered significant water, smoke and fire damage and emergency demolition will take place today. The house also suffered significant damage from previous fires in May 2024 and August 2022.
The fire remains under investigation.
If residents see someone actively entering a vacant structure, or removing boards from windows or doors, they should report the incident immediately by calling the Winnipeg Police Service at 911.
Anyone who sees that boarded windows or doors have been breached, but did not see someone actively entering or attempting to enter a structure should report the incident to 311.
Bond Street fire
At 11:12 p.m. on Friday, August 16, 2024, WFPS crews responded to reports of a fire in a two-storey, commercial and residential mixed-use building.
Upon arrival on scene, crews found smoke and flames coming from the building. They entered and launched an interior fire attack. The fire was declared under control at 11:31 p.m.
All occupants safely self-evacuated prior to the arrival of crews. No injuries were reported.
Damage was contained to the suite where the fire originated. Preliminary observations suggest the fire was accidental, caused by a failure in an e-bike lithium-ion battery or charger.
When charging anything with a battery, there is a risk of fire. You can protect yourself by:
- Always following the manufacturer’s instructions
- Using only the battery and charging cables that came with your item
- Unplugging the item once it is fully charged
- Charging your item on hard surface like a table or countertop. Avoid charging on soft surfaces like your bed, couch, or under a pillow.
Stop using or charging your item if you notice batteries the batteries are:
- Giving off too much heat
- Making odd noises.
- Leaking
- Changing shape or colour
- Showing signs of corrosion