Firefighters responded to a fire in a two-storey home on Deer Lodge Place in St. James early Saturday, May 27, 2023.
Crews got the call around 1:13 am and when they arrived on the scene they found heavy smoke coming from the structure. An interior attack was launched and the fire was declared under control at 1:44 am.
The only resident in the home was able to get out before firefighters arrived on the scene. She was assessed by paramedics but did not require hospitalization. On other injuries were reported.
Fire officials believe that the fire was an accident caused by a malfunctioning clothes dryer.
Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service advises that these type of fires can be reduced by following a few important tips:
- Have your dryer installed and serviced by a professional to ensure it is in good working order.
- Do not use the dryer without a lint filter and always clean the filter after each load of laundry.
- Periodically check the venting system to ensure there is no lint buildup and it is not damaged, crushed, or restricted.
- Make sure the outdoor vent flap opens when the dryer is running.
- Never leave a dryer running when leaving your home.
