Larnaca, Cyprus. A fire in a room of a two-story apartment building on Saturday caused extensive damage and resulted in eight people being taken to Larnaca general hospital with respiratory problems from smoke inhalation.
Emergency response and evacuation
Fire brigade spokesman Andreas Kettis said in a post on X that Larnaca fire stations responded with two fire engines. He said the occupants of the apartment, including three family members with a small child, evacuated as soon as they noticed the fire.
Damage to building
Kettis said the fire caused extensive damage to the apartment and affected other apartments on the upper floors due to the transfer of smoke and hot gases through the staircase.
Hospital transport
Firefighters led all eight residents down the staircase to a ground-floor open area. Two ambulances transported the group, including two small children, to hospital with smoke inhalation issues.
Possible cause under review
Kettis said the fire, at first glance, was caused by an electrical problem in a light fixture, adding that the opinions of the electromechanical services are awaited.
What steps should residents take to evacuate safely during a building fire?