Officials Commented on the Matter.
The fire, which broke out in the early hours of Thursday, was attributed to an electrical spark from a malfunctioning air conditioning unit, officials confirmed.
The air conditioner had been in continuous use due to the severe summer heatwave that has been gripping Algeria, leading to numerous wildfires across the country’s northern regions. Firefighters battled the blaze for three hours in the Mohammadia suburb of Algiers, deploying ten fire engines and 16 ambulances. Algerian President Abdelmajid Tebboune expressed his condolences on social media, noting the involvement of children in the tragedy.
The civil protection department has not yet disclosed the ages of the deceased or the injured, but a 52-year-old caregiver was among the fatalities.
The fire has ignited public anger and calls for a comprehensive investigation.
The opposition Jil Jadid party has demanded a transparent probe into the incident and accountability for any negligence or safety lapses. They also advocate for a national review of fire safety standards in orphanages, care homes, hospitals, and schools.
The incident has underscored the challenges faced by Algeria’s emergency services during the ongoing heatwave.
The country’s civil defense reported nearly 1,000 fires over a week, with the majority contained but some still ablaze. One municipal worker died while fighting a fire in the northern province of Setif.
The orphanage fire has raised questions about safety measures in such institutions.
The opposition’s call for a nationwide review of fire safety standards could prompt a broader discussion on improving safety protocols across the nation.
As the investigation into the Algiers orphanage fire continues, Algeria grapples with the loss of life and the need for effective responses to the ongoing heatwave and its associated fires.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
—
This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: BBC Africa
Source: https://www.facebook.com/bbcnews
