Thunder Bay Fire Rescue (TBFR) crews responded to two overnight structural fires in the city, one on Melvin Avenue near midnight and another in a row housing unit on Limbrick Street just before 3:00 a.m.
Melvin Avenue Fire
Firefighters were first dispatched to Melvin Avenue after a neighbor spotted smoke coming from a garage and promptly called 911.
On arrival, crews encountered heavy smoke inside the garage. Attack lines were advanced and the blaze was quickly extinguished, preventing the fire from spreading to a nearby property.
Limbrick Street Fire
Just hours later, multiple calls alerted TBFR to a fully involved fire at a row housing unit on Limbrick Street.
First-arriving crews found flames venting from windows and the interior heavily engulfed. Firefighters used exterior hose lines to knock down the flames before moving inside for a thorough search of the unit.
While no occupants were found—the residence was confirmed vacant—firefighters rescued a young stray cat hiding inside. The cat was treated on scene for smoke inhalation and is expected to recover.
Despite significant damage to the affected unit, TBFR crews successfully prevented the fire from spreading to adjacent homes. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Safety Reminders from Thunder Bay Fire Rescue
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Check your smoke detectors regularly and replace batteries as needed—working alarms save lives.
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Keep fire extinguishers in your home, particularly in the kitchen, garage, and near heating equipment.
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Have a family fire plan: know two exits from every room, designate a meeting place outside, and practice regularly.
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Report smoke or fire immediately by calling 911—early calls help firefighters contain damage and protect lives.
“These incidents show how critical community awareness is,” TBFR noted. “A watchful neighbor and a quick call can make all the difference.”