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A devastating fire at the Grand Kartal hotel, located in the scenic Kartalkaya ski resort of northwestern Turkey, has resulted in the tragic loss of at least 10 lives and left 32 others hospitalized. The incident occurred early Tuesday morning, igniting panic among the 234 guests staying at the 12-story establishment.
As the flames engulfed the building, many guests found themselves trapped, leading to desperate attempts to escape.
Details of the incident
The fire reportedly broke out in the hotel’s restaurant area, with the cause still under investigation. Eyewitness accounts reveal a chaotic scene as guests scrambled to find safety.
Some individuals attempted to escape by jumping from windows, while others tried to lower themselves using sheets and blankets. The hotel’s ski instructor, Necmi Kepcetutan, recounted his harrowing experience of waking up to smoke-filled hallways and assisting around 20 guests to safety.
Emergency response and evacuation efforts
In response to the emergency, local authorities dispatched 30 fire trucks and 28 ambulances to the scene. The swift action of emergency services was crucial in managing the situation, but the unique design of the hotel, which features wooden cladding, may have exacerbated the fire’s spread.
As a precaution, nearby hotels were evacuated, and guests were relocated to other accommodations in the Bolu region.
Investigation and safety implications
The Turkish government has appointed six prosecutors to lead a thorough investigation into the fire, focusing on the safety measures in place at the hotel.
This tragic event has raised significant concerns regarding fire safety protocols in hotels, particularly those located in popular tourist destinations. As the investigation unfolds, it is imperative for the hospitality industry to reassess and enhance safety standards to prevent such disasters in the future.
The Kartalkaya ski resort, known for its picturesque slopes and vibrant winter tourism, now faces a somber reality as it grapples with the aftermath of this tragic incident. The fire occurred during the school semester break, a peak time for tourism in the area, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures in hospitality venues.
