Large Fire on Building Exterior Due to Welding Sparks... 4 Seriously Injured Including 2 Fallen Firefighters, Over 20 Injured (Comprehensive)

On the 9th, firefighters are extinguishing a fire as flames spread on the exterior wall of an officetel in Allak-dong, Busan, caused by welding sparks. [Image source=Busan Police Agency]

[Asia Economy Yeongnam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Yong-woo] Sparks flying from welding work onto the exterior wall caused injuries to more than 20 people, including 4 firefighters who were engaged in firefighting and rescue operations.

Two firefighters who responded to the report and were conducting rescue operations in a mechanical parking lot fell and sustained serious injuries, while two others were injured.

At around 11:06 a.m. on the 9th, a fire broke out at an officetel in Allak-dong, Dongnae-gu, Busan, injuring 12 people including 4 firefighters, who were transported to the hospital. Eight residents who were trapped on the rooftop and rescued are also receiving treatment at the hospital.

According to Busan police and fire authorities, sparks flew during welding work by workers on the basement first floor, spreading up the exterior wall to the upper floors.

As a result of the fire, a total of 12 people including 5 residents, 2 workers, 4 firefighters, and 1 management office staff inhaled smoke and were transported to the hospital.

Four vehicles in the parking lot were either completely burned or partially damaged. Eight residents living on the upper floors evacuated to the rooftop and were all rescued about an hour after the fire started. The rescued residents include 5 women, 1 man, and 2 children. Although their injuries are not severe, they are receiving hospital treatment.

Firefighters and 25 fire trucks were dispatched to carry out firefighting and rescue operations, and the police deployed 4 patrol cars from the local police station and 1 traffic patrol car to support the rescue efforts.

By around 1 p.m., the major fire was extinguished, but smoke continues to rise as the exterior wall is made of Dryvit material, which retains heat.