Ottawa firefighters successfully contained a persistent balcony fire at a multi-unit residence in the Hintonburg neighbourhood on Tuesday night, resulting in the temporary displacement of one resident.
Emergency Response on Irving Avenue
The incident unfolded shortly after 8 p.m. on December 31, 2025, when a neighbour reported visible flames on the balcony of a duplex located in the 100 block of Irving Avenue, just north of Gladstone Avenue. Ottawa Fire Services crews were dispatched immediately to the scene.
Coordinated Firefighting Efforts
Upon arrival, firefighters implemented a two-pronged attack strategy. One crew advanced a hose line down the laneway to combat the flames from the exterior of the building. Simultaneously, a second team entered the structure to search for any occupants who might be inside.
Firefighters breached the door to the affected unit, where they located a lone resident along with their cat. Both were safely escorted out of the building. Crews then proceeded to check the remaining units in the duplex, assisting other residents to ensure everyone evacuated safely.
Fire Contained, Occupants Accounted For
The firefighting teams managed to handle the bulk of the blaze from outside before moving a hose line into the impacted unit to extinguish remaining flames on the balcony. Their efforts successfully contained the fire to the exterior area, preventing it from spreading into the living spaces.
The fire was officially declared under control at approximately 8:20 p.m., with all occupants confirmed safe and accounted for. To clear the building of smoke, crews used high-pressure ventilation fans. Air quality was tested and deemed safe before residents were permitted to return to their units.
However, due to damage sustained to the entry door during the operation, the occupant of the fire-affected unit could not return immediately. The individual worked with the building owner to arrange temporary alternate accommodations while repairs are undertaken.
No injuries were reported to civilians or fire personnel. The cause of the fire is not detailed in the initial report.
