It’s been a demanding stretch for the Moncton Fire Department after crews responded to two serious fires just blocks apart within a 48-hour period. Crews were first called to a fire on Robinson Street Sunday night, shortly before 9 p.m. The fire broke out in a house that had been divided into several apartments. James Rooney, platoon chief with the Moncton Fire Department, says 14 people were living inside the building at the time. “Fires are always challenging but this time of year we have narrow streets and cold temperatures, and cold and water don’t mix,” said Rooney. The building suffered extensive damage, forcing residents to find temporary accommodations. Neighbour Patricia Yu Howatt stepped in to take a family of nine – many of them children. “They were just about to go to sleep. They were all in their pajamas, they were in tank tops and shorts and they came running out in the snow,” she said. “They have no idea where they’re going. I am really worried about them because it’s the wintertime, most of them are under the age of 16.” Less than 24 hours later, firefighters were back at work again – this time responding to a fire on Lutz Street. Crews from multiple Moncton stations were dispatched, along with aid from Dieppe, after reports of an explosion and fire in a residential building. One occupant was treated at the scene and later transported to hospital with injuries that have not yet been determined. Investigators remain on scene at the Lutz Street fire, and the cause is still under investigation. Fire officials are reminding residents to ensure smoke alarms are working properly and to use extra caution with propane tanks and other heating sources, especially during colder weather. For more New Brunswick news, visit our dedicated provincial page.
