Greater Sudbury structure fire displaces residents

House fire on Baker Street in the Donovan area of Greater Sudbury. February 23, 2025 (Sudbury Professional Fire Fighters)

Early Sunday morning, a multi-unit residence on Baker Street in the Donovan area of Greater Sudbury was the scene of a significant structure fire.

At approximately 3 a.m., fire crews from the downtown, Long Lake, Minnow Lake and New Sudbury fire stations along with the platoon chief, were dispatched to the home.

Upon arrival, Engine 1 and Ladder 1 from the downtown station reported visible smoke and flames emanating from a second-storey window.

“Due to the advanced fire conditions, additional resources from Val Therese were requested,” Sudbury fire officials said in a social media post.

“Firefighters overcame access challenges due to snow, elevation and engine-to-fire distance by deploying a hose line technique known as a horizonal standpipe.”

Firefighter crews said they made an aggressive interior attack and were able to bring the fire under control and prevent further spread.

No injuries

“All occupants were reported safe,” said firefighters.

“However, (they) required the Canadian Red Cross to assist with housing (due to the damage.)”

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, but is suspected to have been electrical caused by a baseboard heater, deputy fire chief Jesse Oshell told CTVNewsNorthernOntario.ca in a text message Monday.

Importance of working smoke alarms

In the wake of the incident, fire officials issued a reminder to residents to regularly check their smoke alarms.

“Please check your smoke alarms regularly to ensure they are functioning properly,” said fire officials.

“By law, every home in Ontario must have a working smoke alarm on every level and outside all sleeping areas.”

The swift response of firefighter crews is being credited with preventing further damage and ensuring the safety of all residents.