Fire in social housing in Rīga claims one life on Tuesday

On December 10, a fire broke out in a five-story residential building in Riga, Latvia. The incident occurred at 14:46 in a 20 square meter room and a 15 square meter corridor on the third floor of the building.

The State Fire and Rescue Service was promptly notified and swiftly responded to the call. The fire was contained and extinguished by the rescuers. A total of 30 people were evacuated from the building, with 15 being evacuated before the arrival of the VUGD and 15 by the rescuers. Eight people were successfully rescued from the building, two using an extension ladder and six using rescue masks.

The building houses approximately 100 rental contracts for social apartments and is home to organisations such as Leben im Abseits e. V. and the "Housing First" initiative, supported by the Reimund C. Reich Stiftung. Leben im Abseits e. V. is involved with occupant placement and resident support based on the Housing First approach, providing homes to formerly homeless people. The "Purvciems" structure of the Riga Social Service and the day center service of the "Rīgas rūpju bērns" association are also located in the building.

Following the fire, necessary repairs are being carried out in the building. The remaining residents were allowed to return to their apartments, but seven residents have applied for temporary accommodation due to damaged rooms. The building will also be guarded due to broken doors.

The Riga Municipality is offering assistance to the residents who were evacuated from the fire-stricken building. The building's heating and electricity are expected to be restored on Wednesday, December 11.

This unfortunate incident serves as a reminder of the importance of fire safety in residential buildings. We wish the affected residents a swift recovery and hope for the continued safety of all in Riga.