Firefighters battled two notable early morning fires.

McMillan Avenue

Shortly before 12:15 am on Sunday, August 20, 2023, Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service responded to the report of a structure fire in the back lane behind McMillan Avenue between Wilton and Guelph Streets.

When crews arrived they found a carport structure, two vehicles and a boat engulfed in flames across two neighbouring properties.

Firefighters launched an attack with hand lines and were able to get the blaze under control.

The vehicles and structure were a total loss.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Inkster Boulevard

At 2:41 am firefighters were called to a fire in a two-storey home on Inkster Boulevard.

When crews arrived they found smoke coming from the house and launched an interior offensive attack. The fire was declared under control at 3:19 am.

Occupants in the structure were able to get out befor emergency crews arrived on the scene.

Initial indications point to the fire being accidental, caused by the improper use of a candle.

Winnipeg Fire officials remind residents to:

• Never leave lit candles unattended.
• Never dispose of candles in the trash until the wax has hardened and the wick is no longer hot.
• Use non-combustible candleholders and place them on a firm, non-slip surface.
• Avoid burning candles in drafty areas to prevent uneven burning and wax dripping.
• Extinguish a candle when it burns down to within two inches of its holder or base.
• Keep candles away from any flammable materials, decorations, curtains, or other combustible material like bedding or cushions.
• Keep candle wicks trimmed to half an inch and remove excess wax before storage. Long, crooked wicks can cause uneven burning and wax drippings.
• Always keep candles, matches and lighters out of the reach of children.