According to Police reports, a fire that killed 13 people in a bar in the French city of Rouen was caused by someone carrying a birthday cake with lighted candles. Officials believe the person tripped on stairs leading down to the small basement which was crowded with young partygoers.
The candles ignited soundproofing insulation material on the basement walls and ceiling at the Cuba Libre bar in the early hours of Saturday 6th August and the basement quickly filled with toxic smoke as the flames spread. Most of the young people who died were overcome by fumes and six others were injured, one in a critical condition.
Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve said more than 50 firefighters were rapidly on the scene but the fire development was rapid. A witness told French TV that there was panic in the bar: “Everybody wanted to get out. Unfortunately those who were in the basement did not have the time to get upstairs.”
Prime Minister Manuel said: “Deep sadness with regard to the tragedy which mowed down 13 young lives. Compassion and support for the afflicted families.” He praised firefighters for the speed of their response.
The Rouen fire is the deadliest to hit France since 2005, according to French media. The use of polystyrene insulation material is prohibited in public venues in France. Insulation materials including polystyrene have been blamed for previous deadly blazes, including a nightclub fire in Bucharest last year which killed 45 persons , and a fire in a club in Brazil in 2013 where the death toll totalled 241.
About the Author
Neil Wallington is a former British Chief Fire Officer, a Past International President of the Institution of Fire Engineers, and a holder of the Queen’s Commendation for Brave Conduct. He is the author of 17 books on the work of the fire service, and acts as a consultant with extensive experience in the Gulf on a range of projects.
