Yesterday evening around 10 p.m., a fire broke out in an apartment located in a R+2 building in Maureillas las Illas in the Pyrénées-Orientales (Occitanie), spreading to the roof.
A dramatic fire broke out on Thursday January 2, around 10 p.m., in an apartment located in a R+2 building in Maureillas-las-Illas, in the Pyrénées-Orientales (Occitanie region). The fire, which started in a home, quickly spread to the roof, causing considerable damage.
Rapid emergency intervention
Thanks to the effective intervention of firefighters from the Boulou, Céret and Vallespir emergency centers, all residents were able to be evacuated safely. Despite this, three people were injured in this incident: an elderly person and a child, inconvenienced by the fumes, as well as the latter's mother, who suffered burns to her hands and feet. All three were treated by emergency services and transported to the Perpignan hospital center.
A seriously damaged building
The fire seriously damaged the structure of the building. Part of it has collapsed, and the rest of the building, weakened, presents a risk of collapse. A specialist team was dispatched to the scene to assess the dangers and secure the area.
Hard work to control the fire
Firefighters worked throughout the night to extinguish hot spots and prevent the flames from spreading to neighboring homes. Their commitment made it possible to limit the damage in this neighborhood. Operations continue on site to guarantee the safety of local residents.
The Departmental Fire and Rescue Service (SDIS) of Pyrénées-Orientales praised the courage of the firefighters:
“Thoughts to the affected residents and a big thank you to the firefighters for their dedication and courage in the face of this dramatic event.”
This fire once again highlights the crucial role of emergency services and their bravery in emergency situations. The residents, for their part, will have to be rehoused while awaiting an assessment of the condition of the building.
Photo credit SDIS 66 Maxime MOULIN