Mong Kok Guesthouse Fire: Staff Dozes Off While Smoking, Ignites Bedding
SingTao · 2 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
A fire broke out at a Mong Kok guesthouse after a staff member fell asleep while smoking, causing a discarded cigarette to ignite bedding and miscellaneous items. The staff member tried to extinguish the blaze himself, suffered minor injuries, and refused hospitalization. More than ten residents from upper floors were evacuated as a precaution. Fire crews brought the blaze under control within minutes.
Key Points
- Fire occurred at 1:53 AM on Wednesday at a guesthouse on the second floor of Lip Fat Building, Birt Street 38-44A
- Male staff member dozed off in the rest room after placing a cigarette on an ashtray; the cigarette fell and ignited surrounding items
- Staff member woke to a burning smell, attempted to extinguish the fire, and bumped his head during the effort
- Firefighters deployed one hose line and a smoke hood team, controlling the blaze within two minutes
- About 20 residents, including families with children and infants, evacuated downstairs; a couple on the fourth floor also reported the incident
- Staff member's head injury was treated by paramedics; he declined hospitalization
Why It Matters
The incident highlights the fire hazards of smoking in enclosed accommodation settings, particularly in guesthouses where staff and guests sleep in close proximity . No injuries to residents occurred, but the rapid evacuation underscores the importance of fire safety protocols and working smoke detectors in high-density living spaces throughout Hong Kong .
The incident highlights the fire hazards of smoking in enclosed accommodation settings, particularly in guesthouses where staff and guests sleep in close proximity . No injuries to residents occurred, but the rapid evacuation underscores the importance of fire safety protocols and working smoke detectors in high-density living spaces throughout Hong Kong .