Two dozen families don’t have a home after a weekend fire that severely damaged a large apartment complex in Winnipeg.
People scrambled from two of the complex’s buildings when the blaze broke out overnight Sunday.
Firefighters encountered heavy smoke and flames, but there were no injuries.
Officials say all the third-floor suites in both buildings were destroyed, while those on the second and first floors have damage to their interiors.
Tenants will not be allowed inside to salvage any of their belongings until a structural assessment is done.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
“It was all black smoke,” said Leanne Nacionales, who escaped the fire with her fiance Anthony La-Forrest and their six children. “I could only see my feet. I was screaming for Anthony where he was and he kept yelling `run downstairs.“’
The family lived on the third floor and said while they’re fortunate to be alive, they didn’t have insurance and all their belongings were destroyed.
Winnipeg Fire and Paramedic Service assistant chief Mark Reshaur says the buildings aren’t equipped with sprinkler systems, which are not required under the Manitoba Building Code due to the age of the structures.
“It depends on the size of the building, its height and the type of construction.”
Vicki Tod, who lives in a neighbouring building, surveyed the damage on Monday and said she fears for the safety of her block.
“Because they’re older buildings and they can flare up much faster ... I’m concerned. I’m very concerned.”