Small fire at Barrie apartment building sparks evacuation

Police vehicles block a section of Innisfil Street in Barrie, Ont., after fire broke out at an apartment building on Tues., Feb. 11, 2025. (CTV News Barrie)

A small fire broke out at an apartment building in Barrie’s south end on Tuesday, sparking a temporary evacuation.

Barrie Fire Deputy Fire Chief Eric MacFadden said the call came in shortly after 2 p.m. as a report of smoke coming from the eavestrough.

Fire crews and Barrie police responded, with officers blocking Innisfil Street between Brock and Tiffin Streets to allow emergency crews to work.

Firefighters quickly put out the flames while residents were safely evacuated.

MacFadden said it was revealed people had been working on the exterior of the building, attempting to melt ice when something - though it’s unclear what - sparked the fire.

No injuries were reported.

All the residents were allowed back inside once the fire was extinguished.

Only exterior damage was reported.

The area has since reopened to the public.