A devastating fire broke out in a retirement home in Milan, resulting in the loss of six lives and leaving approximately 80 individuals injured, with three in critical condition, according to Italian authorities.
Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala revealed that two residents tragically burned to death in their room, while four others succumbed to intoxication caused by the fire.
The fire originated in a first-floor room within the facility but was swiftly extinguished, preventing its spread to other areas of the building.
However, the incident released a significant volume of toxic fumes, contributing to the severity of the tragedy.
“The loss of life in this fire is a heart-wrenching tragedy. Our thoughts and condolences go out to the families affected by this devastating event,” expressed Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala.
Emergency services were promptly dispatched to the scene, working tirelessly to rescue residents and provide medical assistance to the injured.
The injured individuals were swiftly transported to nearby hospitals for urgent treatment.
Italian authorities are launching an investigation to determine the cause of the fire and to ascertain whether any safety regulations were violated.
Preliminary reports suggest that the fire’s rapid containment helped prevent further casualties and minimize damage to the facility.
“The fire started in a first-floor room of the facility. It was put out quickly and did not spread to the rest of the building, yet produced a vast quantity of toxic fumes,” stated an official from the local fire department.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety protocols and fire prevention measures in retirement homes and similar facilities.
Authorities will be reviewing and assessing the safety standards and emergency preparedness of such establishments to prevent future tragedies.
The devastating fire serves as a somber reminder of the importance of fire safety and emergency response in residential care facilities.
Efforts must be intensified to ensure the well-being and protection of vulnerable individuals within these establishments.
As the investigation continues, support and counseling services will be made available to the families affected by the loss of their loved ones, as well as to the survivors traumatized by the incident.
