Fire in Nuremberg Attic Apartment Injures Three, Causes Extensive Damage
A fire that broke out in an attic apartment in Nuremberg, Germany, on Monday evening has left three people with minor injuries and caused hundreds of thousands of euros in damage.
The blaze erupted on the fifth floor of a multi-family building on Plobenhofstraße in the St. Johannis area of the city at around 6:30 PM, according to the Nuremberg Fire Department.
Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy smoke and flames coming from the attic apartment. Three occupants of the building, two men and a woman, had already evacuated before their arrival and sustained minor injuries due to smoke inhalation and burns. They were treated at the scene by paramedics and released.
A fourth occupant, a woman, was taken to a nearby hospital after experiencing a psychological crisis due to the fire.
Firefighters quickly extinguished the flames and prevented them from spreading to other apartments in the building. However, the attic apartment where the fire originated was severely damaged and deemed uninhabitable.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but authorities suspect it may have been caused by an electrical malfunction. The extent of the damage is estimated to be several hundred thousand euros.
Residential Evacuations and Temporary Relocation
Due to the severity of the damage, the building’s management company, WON Nürnberg, has arranged for temporary housing for the affected residents. The Plobenhofstraße complex consists of 16 apartments, of which the attic apartment is the only one currently uninhabitable.
"We are working closely with the residents to ensure they have a safe and comfortable place to stay while their own apartments are being repaired," said a WON Nürnberg spokesperson.
Fire Safety Measures and Community Response
The fire has prompted authorities to remind residents of the importance of fire safety measures, such as having working smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and an evacuation plan in place.
"It’s crucial to be prepared for emergencies and know what to do in the event of a fire," said Nuremberg Police spokesperson Michael Petzold. "We urge all residents to take these precautions seriously."
The incident has also drawn a strong response from the local community, with neighbors and volunteers offering support to the affected residents. Several local businesses have also donated food, clothing, and other supplies to those in need.
Ongoing Investigation and Support
The Nuremberg Police and Fire Department are continuing to investigate the cause of the fire and assess the damage. Social services are also providing assistance to the affected residents to help them cope with the aftermath of the incident.
Local authorities have expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community and stressed the importance of working together to ensure the well-being of all residents.