Fire in apartment block in Ekeren probably caused by electricity failure, danger to life for victims has passed

The smoke spread to the higher floors and was visible from the windows on the top floor. “Residents were advised to stay in their apartments and not to use the smoke-filled corridors. Some residents sought safety on their terrace. A number of residents were helped out by the fire brigade.”

Danger to life has passed

A person in the basement was seriously affected by the smoke. Two residents on the top floor also inhaled too much smoke, one of whom also had serious complaints. “Eight people were taken to hospital. Two people were in danger of death for a while. Later in the evening the message came that the danger to life had passed,” says Bruyns.

“The fire brigade checked all apartments for the presence of harmful CO levels. The fire caused a power outage. Temporary shelter was provided for the affected residents in a nearby service center,” Bruyns said.

The fire brigade remains on site to ventilate the building. Anyone living in the area could be affected by the smoke. There was also considerable smoke development on the Rozemaai side. All residents could count on friends and family to spend the night with. Due to the smoke, smell and lack of heating, the police advised against staying in the building any longer.