Two Hospitalized After Cooking Fire Erupts in Windsor Apartment Building
Two individuals were transported to hospital following a residential fire that broke out in a Windsor apartment building on Wednesday afternoon. The incident occurred in the 1300 block of Ouellette Avenue, south of the city's downtown core, prompting a significant emergency response.
Emergency Response and Fire Details
Windsor Fire and Rescue Services, along with multiple other emergency vehicles, arrived at the three-storey residential building around 2 p.m. on February 25, 2026. Shortly after crews arrived on scene, fire officials upgraded the situation to a structure fire, indicating the seriousness of the blaze.
According to fire prevention officer John Smith, an occupant of the apartment had already used a fire extinguisher before firefighters arrived. This quick action allowed for rapid extinguishment of the remaining fire, which had spread to a couch within the unit.
Motorists were advised to avoid the area during the emergency response as crews worked to secure the scene and ensure public safety.
Cause and Consequences of the Blaze
Investigators determined that the fire originated from hot oil on a stove catching fire during cooking activities. The flames then "extended" to a nearby couch, creating additional fire hazards within the apartment unit.
The two residents affected by the fire were transported to hospital for medical evaluation and treatment. At the time of the incident, authorities did not immediately provide specific details regarding the extent of their injuries or their current medical condition.
Safety Implications and Community Impact
This incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with cooking activities in residential settings. The rapid spread of the fire from the stove to nearby furniture highlights how quickly cooking-related incidents can escalate into serious emergencies.
The successful use of a fire extinguisher by an occupant before professional help arrived demonstrates the importance of:
- Having proper fire safety equipment readily available in homes
- Understanding how to use fire extinguishers effectively
- Taking immediate action when fire emergencies occur
While the quick response from both occupants and emergency personnel helped contain the situation, the hospitalization of two individuals underscores the serious consequences that can result from cooking fires in residential buildings.
