Woman jumped from window as flames engulfed south end townhomes
Posted Sep 4, 2025 12:50:24 PM.
Last Updated Sep 5, 2025 04:28:18 PM.
Firefighters were able to contain a quickly spreading blaze in a row of townhouses in Ottawa’s east end, but not before a portion of the block was engulfed in flames.
Two people were also injured in the situation that saw firefighters quickly call in reinforcements.
According to paramedics, a woman in her 50s jumped from the second-storey window to escape the fire. She suffered non-life-threatening injuries from the escape and was taken to hospital in stable condition. A man in his 20s suffered mild smoke inhalation and was also sent to hospital, the email from paramedics notes.
Firefighters were called about smoke and flames coming from several attached townhouses at around 4:24 a.m. on Thursday morning. Callers reported to dispatch that they saw debris falling from the windows and were fearful that people could still be inside.
Within two minutes, crews arrived at the 2800 block of Mésanges Drive in the Emerald Woods-Sawmill Creek community. Firefighters could see that the homes were engulfed at the back. They launched what they called an “aggressive” attack on the blaze, deploying hoses around the homes and an aerial ladder from above.
At 4:30 a.m., a second-alarm was called to dispatch more resources to the scene.
Officials said by this time the flames had reached the attics of three units. Another team was searching through the homes, opening walls and ceilings to find the hidden hot spots. After two complete searches, no one was found inside.
“The quick and coordinated response from our firefighters was critical in bringing this large fire under control in under an hour,” Nick DeFazio, public information officer with Ottawa fire told CityNews. “Their efficiency made all the difference this morning. This is also an important reminder that, in a typical house fire, you may have only two minutes to get out safely. Preparation and awareness can save lives.”
Due to the blaze there are 10 people now displaced. Victim assistance is helping the families.
The fire was under control by 5:04 a.m.
