Deadly fire in HCMC caused by electrical short circuit
To prevent similar tragedies, the police in Ho Chi Minh City urge residents to be more mindful of electrical fire risks and to ensure that fire exits are accessible.
THE HANOI TIMES — According to local police, the blaze that killed eight people on July 6 in Ho Chi Minh City’s Phu Tho Hoa Ward began as an electrical short circuit.
An early investigation found that the homeowner had illegally connected electrical wiring to supply ground-floor equipment, which led to a short circuit that ignited the fire, police said on July 8.
Authorities noted at the scene that many apartment balconies had been enclosed with metal cages known as "chuong cop" (tiger cages), which blocked emergency exits.
"Chuong cop" (tiger cage) in residential buildings. Photo: Nhu Sy
Local officials in Phu Tho Hoa Ward ordered residents to dismantle unauthorized balcony structures and metal cages to ensure emergency exits in case of fire, and many households have responded by demolishing them.
According to the police, the main cause of death in fires is the blocking of emergency exits in residential buildings by metal cages, which are often mounted to prevent burglary.
The police urge residents to avoid unsafe wiring, use certified devices, and regularly inspect and replace wiring to prevent fire risks.
Residents are also reminded that housing construction and renovations must comply with fire safety regulations and include designated fire exits.
