Two tragic incidents within 24 hours have left two elderly men dead due to house fires, triggered by improper use of stoves, as reported by the General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations (GIES).
The first fire occurred on the morning of December 26, 2023, in the village of Arionest, located within the Dondușeni district. Emergency responders, including local fire departments, swiftly mobilized to extinguish the flames engulfing the residential structure. Sadly, after bringing the fire under control, firefighters discovered the charred remains of 89-year-old man.
Investigators confirmed the cause of the fire, stating, "The stove door was fully open, and likely the fire started due to a spark". This tragic circumstance serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with inadequate stove operation.
Later the same day, another fire broke out around evening time, this time affecting the village of Pyrita in the Dubăsari district. Here, the fire spread to the roof and chimney of the house. During the firefighting efforts, emergency workers found the body of 84-year-old man. Reports indicate he was likely the victim of carbon monoxide poisoning, stemming from chimney blockages.
GIES has been proactive, urging citizens to take precautions when using stoves and other heating sources, especially during the colder months. The agency emphasized the importance of ensuring proper venting and maintenance of heating appliances. "It is extremely important for chimneys not to be blocked and for stoves and other heating sources to not be used if defective," representatives from GIES stated.
Since the beginning of 2024, GIES reported 1,639 fire incidents across the nation, leading to 103 fatalities, which alarmingly includes three children. The statistics highlight a pressing issue: frequent incidents of carbon monoxide poisoning, with 52 cases reported, resulting in 94 injuries and 17 deaths, three of whom were children.
To combat such challenges, GIES encourages the community to support vulnerable groups, especially elderly individuals who may be living alone or with disabilities. They advise family members to check on elderly relatives, assisting them with fire building and monitoring their stoves to prevent accidents.
Fire officials continue to encourage regular maintenance of stoves and chimneys, emphasizing the need for thorough cleaning to prevent soot and debris accumulation, which can obstruct proper smoke ventilation.
These recent incidents shed light on the broader topic of home fire safety. The tragic deaths of these two men underline the importance of adhering to safety protocols and being vigilant about heating elements during the winter season. With winter upon us, it's more important than ever for families to prioritize fire safety by regularly checking heating devices and ensuring proper use to prevent similar tragedies.
Advocacy groups alongside GIES urge citizens to familiarize themselves with fire safety measures and reach out for help if concerned about their or their neighbors' heating situations. This collective effort can significantly reduce the likelihood of such devastating accidents occurring again.
