SIBU: Six guests who were trapped in a smoke-filled hotel at Lorong Emplam, Jalan Kampung Nyabor here, had to be rescued by firemen this morning after their exit route was blocked by thick smoke.
The guests, comprised of four women and two men, were found on the balcony outside and at their hotel room windows, gasping for air and waiting for rescue.
Sibu Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Zone 4 chief Andy Alie said the incident happened around 9.10am and firemen from Sibu central station were deployed to the scene.
On arrival, they discovered smoke and fire emanating from a first-floor hotel room, with the surrounding area heavily obscured by smoke as well.
“After assessing the situation, the team noticed that several individuals were trapped due to the hotel’s stairway being blocked by thick smoke.
“The team skillfully employed ladders to rescue the hotel guests, and the evacuation was carried out successfully amidst the hazardous conditions,” he said.
Following the rescue operation, the team also conducted a thorough check of all hotel rooms to ensure the safe evacuation of all occupants.
Andy pointed out that there were no injuries reported among the rescued guests.
The extinguishing deed was quickly performed, and the fire was completely doused off around 10.20am.
According to preliminary investigations, the fire is believed to have started in a hotel room and subsequently spread to the hotel’s counter area.
“The fire-resistant door of the room had been opened by hotel staff while attempting to locate the source of the fire.
“Unfortunately, this allowed the fire to expand and reach the main passage, causing smoke to permeate throughout the first and second floors of the building,” Andy said.
The exact cause of the fire and losses incurred are still under investigation.
