Chimney Blast Injures Woman in Quellendorf
A 35-year-old woman has been severely injured in a chimney explosion in the town of Quellendorf in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany.
According to police, the woman was rushed to a hospital via rescue helicopter after the incident. The cause of the explosion in the living room fireplace remains unknown.
The fire brigade was dispatched to the scene with 21 firefighters, who extinguished the flames before they could spread beyond the chimney and into the living room.
Cause of Explosion Remains Undetermined
Police are still investigating the exact circumstances that led to the explosion, stating that they have yet to determine why it occurred.
Woman Suffers Serious Injuries
The woman who was injured in the blast sustained severe burns and other injuries. She was initially transported to a local hospital before being airlifted to a specialized burn center for further treatment.
Emergency Services Mobilized
In addition to the fire brigade, emergency medical services and a rescue helicopter were deployed to the scene to assist the injured woman.
Public Warning Issued
Following the incident, police have issued a warning to the public, urging people to exercise caution when using fireplaces and chimneys. They emphasized the importance of having chimneys inspected and cleaned regularly to prevent the accumulation of soot and other flammable materials that can lead to explosions.
Fireplace Safety Tips
To ensure the safe use of fireplaces and chimneys, the following tips are recommended:
- Have your chimney inspected and cleaned annually by a certified chimney sweep.
- Never leave a fire unattended.
- Use dry, seasoned wood for fuel.
- Keep flammable materials away from the fireplace and chimney.
- Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home.
- Be aware of the burn risks associated with fireplaces and take appropriate precautions.
By following these guidelines, you can help prevent chimney explosions and other fire-related accidents in your home.
