At 11:12 p.m. on Friday, Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) crews responded to reports of a fire in a two-storey, commercial and residential mixed-use building on Bond Street.
Upon arrival, crews discovered smoke and flames emanating from the building. They promptly entered the premises and initiated an interior fire attack. The fire was declared under control at 11:31 p.m.
All occupants had safely self-evacuated before the arrival of the fire crews, and no injuries were reported.
The damage was confined 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.
WFPS reminds the public of the risks associated with charging items that have batteries. To protect yourself, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, use only the battery and charging cables that came with your item, unplug the item once it is fully charged, and charge your item on a hard surface like a table or countertop. Avoid charging on soft surfaces like your bed, couch, or under a pillow.
If you notice that your batteries are giving off too much heat, making odd noises, leaking, changing shape or color, or showing signs of corrosion, stop using or charging the item immediately.
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