Sharjah 24: Sharjah Police and Civil Defence Force successfully contained a fire that erupted in a residential tower located in the Al Nahda area. The tower, comprising 39 floors and housing 750 apartments, faced the blaze on Thursday. Swift action by the Civil Defence Force and Sharjah Police General Command prevented the flames from engulfing the entire structure and saved numerous lives.

Tragically, the incident resulted in five fatalities, while 156 individuals, including children, were provided shelter.

Major General Saif Al Zari Al Shamsi, Commander-in-Chief of Sharjah Police, extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.

The response to the emergency commenced following a report received by the Sharjah Police Operations Room at 10:50 p.m. Personnel from the Civil Defence Authority and Sharjah Police worked together to swiftly extinguish the fire. However, smoke inhalation led to the demise of five individuals, while seventeen required immediate medical attention. Twenty-seven others were discharged from the hospital after receiving treatment.

In collaboration with the Red Crescent Authority, accommodation was arranged for 156 individuals, including 18 children, at a local hotel. Medical examinations were conducted to ensure their well-being. The Sharjah Police, along with strategic partners, are providing comprehensive support to those affected by the incident.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the fire originated from contact between a heat source and suspended waste in one of the skylights, resulting in the rapid spread of flames and heavy smoke throughout the residential apartments.

Major General Al Shamsi stressed the importance of fire awareness and the implementation of preventive measures by property owners and tenants to mitigate such incidents. Preserving lives and property is a collective responsibility that demands serious and proactive engagement from all stakeholders.