Fire in Cormano: Four Homeless Individuals Rescued from Abandoned Building
On Wednesday morning, Milan’s fire brigade successfully rescued four homeless individuals from an abandoned building engulfed in flames. The incident occurred in Cormano, on Via dei Giovi 6, an area bordering the Municipality of Milan. The individuals, who had reportedly been sheltering in the dilapidated building for several days, became trapped on the second floor as the fire spread.
The Rescue Operation
Five fire brigade units were dispatched to the scene to tackle the blaze and ensure the safety of those inside. Following the extinguishing of the fire, cleanup operations commenced. The rescued individuals were immediately attended to by 118 emergency medical personnel. Fortunately, despite the dangerous circumstances, they did not sustain any serious injuries and were reported to be in good condition. State police were also present at the site to assist with the operation and investigate the cause of the fire.
Safety in Abandoned Buildings
This incident highlights the significant dangers associated with occupying abandoned or dilapidated buildings, especially for vulnerable populations such as the homeless. Such structures often lack proper safety features, including functional fire suppression systems, and can pose serious health and safety risks. Authorities frequently issue warnings about the perils of these sites, including structural instability, exposure to hazardous materials, and the increased risk of fires due to makeshift heating or cooking arrangements.
Preventive Measures and Support for Homeless Individuals
Local authorities and non-profit organizations continuously work to provide support and safe shelter options for homeless individuals, particularly during colder months. These initiatives aim to prevent such dangerous situations by offering alternatives to squatting in unsafe buildings. Residents are encouraged to report any concerns regarding abandoned buildings or individuals in need of assistance to the relevant municipal services or emergency numbers.
Contact Information for Emergency Services and Support:
- Emergency Services (Fire, Police, Ambulance): 112 (European Emergency Number)
- Milan Social Services (Support for Homeless): Contact your local municipality or search for “Servizi Sociali Milano” online for specific contact details and available programs.
- Reporting Abandoned Buildings: Contact your local municipal police or urban planning department to report unsafe or illegally occupied structures.
How to Stay Safe in Case of Fire:
- Evacuate Immediately: If you are in a building that catches fire, evacuate immediately. Do not attempt to retrieve belongings.
- Call for Help: Once safely outside, call the emergency services (112) and provide clear details about the location and situation.
- Do Not Re-enter: Never re-enter a burning building for any reason.
- Know Your Exits: Always be aware of multiple escape routes from any building you are in.
This event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety and the ongoing need to support vulnerable members of our community with safe and adequate housing solutions.
