In a multi-storey building on Dovzhenka Street in Lviv, a fire broke out in a flat on the fourth floor, during which firefighters evacuated three people. The incident occurred on 9 September at 14:33.
According to preliminary information, the owner of the flat left the washing machine on and went out, leaving three cats inside. When neighbours noticed signs of a fire, they phoned the owner, who returned and opened the door. After that, smoke quickly spread through the stairwell, leading to heavy smoke in the entrance.
By the time the State Emergency Service units arrived, household items were burning in the flat over an area of about 5 sq. m. During the search and firefighting operations in conditions of heavy smoke, firefighters, using special equipment, rescued two people, and escorted another person out of the danger zone.
As a result of the fire, three cats died. The fire was contained at 14:50 and fully extinguished at 14:51.
Firefighters stress the importance of not leaving washing machines and other electrical appliances unattended while in use, not using damaged equipment, and regularly checking that the electrical wiring is in good working order. In the event of a fire, you should immediately call 101 or 112, avoid opening the door of a smoke-filled room unless absolutely necessary, and not attempt to go back inside on your own.