Five Hospitalized Following Apartment Fire in Cottbus During New Year's Celebrations

Cottbus - A serious fire broke out in a multi-storey residential building in the central district of Cottbus during the early hours of New Year's Day, resulting in five individuals being hospitalized for injuries, primarily due to smoke inhalation. The incident, which occurred on a balcony of an apartment on the second floor, led to the rapid spread of flames into the adjoining residence.

According to local authorities, the fire originated on the balcony and quickly extended into the apartment where a woman was present at the time. Neighbours responded swiftly, managing to rescue the woman from the burning apartment before the arrival of emergency services. Emergency personnel from both the professional and volunteer fire brigades, as well as units from the Spree-Neiße district and disaster relief teams, responded promptly to control the situation.

Among the building's approximately 40 residents, four additional individuals were transported to hospital for further observation and treatment due to the effects of smoke inhalation. The remaining residents were able to return to their homes once fire crews had completed their operations and deemed the premises safe.

Authorities have not yet confirmed the precise cause of the blaze. Investigations are ongoing to determine whether New Year's fireworks or other potential sources may have ignited the fire. The incident has raised concerns about fire safety during holiday festivities, particularly in densely populated residential complexes.

The collaborative efforts of emergency services, including multiple fire brigades and disaster relief units, were instrumental in containing the fire and minimizing further harm to both residents and property. Firefighters worked efficiently to extinguish the flames, ventilate the building, and assess structural safety before allowing tenants to re-enter their apartments.

This event underscores the ongoing risks associated with festive activities such as the use of fireworks around residential areas. Local officials have urged residents to exercise caution and adhere to safety guidelines, especially during celebratory periods when the likelihood of accidents may increase.

In response to the incident, the city has reiterated the importance of community vigilance and emergency preparedness. Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with fire safety protocols, ensure smoke detectors are functional, and report any hazardous activities that could lead to similar emergencies.

Medical teams at the hospital are currently monitoring the five injured individuals. Their conditions are reported as stable, with most receiving treatment for mild to moderate smoke inhalation. A full assessment of property damage is expected to follow as investigators work to establish a definitive cause of the fire.