Residents in a Winnipeg neighbourhood were forced to evacuate their homes after two vacant buildings caught fire on Monday evening.
The fires broke out in two separate buildings on the 500 block of Selkirk Avenue, with one starting around 6:30 p.m. and the other around 8:30 p.m.
According to the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS), the first fire was contained to the second floor of the building and was quickly extinguished. However, the second fire spread to the adjacent building, causing significant damage to both structures.
Thankfully, no injuries were reported, but the WFPS did confirm that several residents in the area were evacuated as a precautionary measure.
The cause of the fires is still under investigation, but officials have stated that both buildings were vacant at the time and there were no utilities connected to them.
The WFPS is reminding the public to always be cautious around vacant buildings, as they can pose a safety hazard and increase the risk of fires.
The City of Winnipeg’s Emergency Social Services team was on site to assist any residents who were displaced by the fires.
The WFPS is also urging anyone with information about the fires to contact the Arson Strike Force at 204-986-6813 or Crime Stoppers at 204-786-TIPS (8477).
As of Tuesday morning, the fires were under control and crews were working to fully extinguish any remaining hot spots.
The WFPS is reminding the public to always be vigilant and report any suspicious activity or potential fire hazards to authorities.
