Vacant house goes up in flames in Winnipeg's North End, neighbouring buildings evacuated

A vacant house in Winnipeg's North End is set for demolition after it sustained significant damage in a Monday morning fire.

Crews were called to the 1½-storey home on Magnus Avenue, just off Arlington Street, around 7:30 a.m., and found smoke and flames coming out of it, said a news release from the city.

Firefighters launched a defensive attack because it was not safe to enter. They remained at the scene early Monday afternoon, using an aerial ladder and hand lines to apply water to the fire.

Neighbouring homes were evacuated as a precaution, and the city's emergency social services team helped provide temporary support to those who were affected.

The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service is arranging an emergency demolition of the house.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Road closures in the area will remain in place until work is completed, the city's news release said.

Crews will monitor conditions and apply sand and de-icing material to improve traction on sidewalks and roads in the area.

The city urges anyone who sees someone entering a vacant building to call 911 and report it immediately.

If it appears boarded-up windows or doors have been breached, but no one is seen going in or out, people are asked to let the city know by calling 311 or submitting the information online.