CHAOS IN BNEI BRAK: Families Trapped as Massive Fire Rips Through Residential Block
Thirteen people, including five children, were treated for smoke inhalation after a fire broke out in a Bnei Brak apartment building early Tuesday morning.
A chaotic scene unfolded early Tuesday morning on Rav Assi Street as a fire broke out in a four-story residential building, leaving 13 people injured and several families trapped in their homes.
The fire reportedly started in an electrical cabinet on the first floor, sending thick, black smoke billowing through the main stairwell. Because the smoke was so heavy, emergency dispatchers told residents to stay inside their apartments and seal their doors to keep the fumes out while firefighters worked to reach them.
13 people were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation.
The victims range in age from 13 to 70 years old, including five children.
All 13 were evacuated to Sheba Medical Center at Tel HaShomer, though officials say they are currently in mild condition.
First responders from United Hatzalah and MDA described a high-pressure rescue. "When I got there, the fire was active and there were a lot of people trapped," said Yoel Shechter, a night dispatcher for Hatzalah. "After firefighters cleared the building and pulled people out, we were able to provide medical care and get them to the hospital."
Four fire crews and a crane were used to get the blaze under control and vent the smoke from the building. Fire officials are reminding the public that in cases of heavy smoke in hallways, "sheltering in place" inside an apartment is often the safest move to avoid life-threatening smoke inhalation.