Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service responded to a structure fire in a Main Street commercial building around 7:43 p.m. on Friday, March 8, 2024.
When emergency crews arrived on the scene they found heavy smoke and flame coming from the structure.
An offensive interior attack was initially launched but firefighters were forced to retreat due to dangerous conditions inside the building. Crews transitioned to a defensive attack outside the building using a ladder truck, hand lines and monitors.
(Eileen O’Donnell | News4.ca)
Manitoba Hydro crews were called in to cut power to the building
Over the next several hours firefighters knocked down the blaze but the fire rekindled itself resulting in an additional ladder truck being brought in.
Firefighters also entered a neighbouring vacant building and knocked out plywood window covers to vent the structure that had filled with smoke.
The fire was declared under control at 3:39 a.m. but some crews remained on scene to put out any hotspots.
No injuries were reported.
The city says that northbound Main Street has reopened but Southbound remains closed until emergency crews complete their work. Due to the amount of water to fight the fire and freezing temperatures the city urges caution in the area due to slippery conditions. Sand and de-icing products will be used to improve traction once the road reopens.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
— With files from Keegan Driedger & Eileen O’Donnell
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