WINNIPEG, MAN. – Winnipeg officials are investigating a construction site fire that caused extensive damage. The site has been deemed a total loss. No injuries were reported
Winnipeg Fire Service (WPS) crews responded Monday, Jan. 31 at 3:30 p.m. to reports of a significant fire at the construction site of a four-storey condominium complex in the 700 block of Kimberly Avenue.
The city stated that the fire pushed into a neighbouring property, involving two additional condominium buildings and a parking garage.
“When crews arrived on-scene, they encountered a well-involved fire with heavy smoke and flames coming from the multi-unit residential building under construction,” read a release from the city. “Crews immediately launched a defensive fire attack on the framed structure using aerial ladders and hose streams. A second, and then third alarm were called to increase the number of apparatus on-scene to assist in fire operations and to help ensure the safety of residents in the area.”
Occupants self-evacuated or were evacuated with assistance from crews. The city stated that despite efforts by firefighters to contain the blaze, it spread to two condo buildings and a parking garage. After knocking down some of the flames, crews were able to access the two condo buildings to fight those fires offensively and keep the fire from destroying the buildings.
The city added that the cause of the fire is under investigation and that while no damage estimates are ready, the building under construction and the parking garage belonging to the neighbouring condo complex are considered total losses. The two condo buildings have suffered extensive fire, water and smoke damage.
It is not yet known when evacuees from the condo buildings will be able to access their suites. They are encouraged to connect with their insurance providers and reach out to their management company for updates.
Weather was a particular challenge. The city noted that with freezing rain, sleet, and blowing snow, crews had a tough time keeping their water, trucks, personal protective equipment, and tools from quickly freezing up. Extra units were called to the scene, along with the WFPS Rehabilitation Unit, as crews need to be rotated in and out of operations frequently to protect them from the conditions. Winnipeg Transit buses were deployed to the scene to provide shelter for evacuated residents. The City of Winnipeg’s Emergency Social Services also attended the scene to assist displaced residents in finding temporary accommodations.
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