A fire broke out in an underground grill in Corso Vittorio Emanuele, in the center of Milan. From what emerged, two electrical substations caught fire. A dense column of smoke was therefore visible a few meters away from Piazza Duomo, more precisely on the corner with Via Cesare Beccaria. Fire and police teams intervened on the scene and found part of the street and evacuated the employees of the shops near the fire. The flames were then put out.
The testimonials
“We heard a very loud bang and the lights went out.” A shop assistant on Corso Vittorio Emanuele told Adnkronos. “We went out into the street and saw the fire,” said the woman, who along with her colleagues moved away from the area to escape the smoke. “You can see the flames from the grates,” said a resident who left the building where he lives, and was left – like many people in the area – without electricity.
No one is involved
According to results, no one was involved in the fire. Milan firefighters reported this in a note and then continued to operate until the situation was finally under control.
Title: Fires in Urban Spaces: Insights from Recent Incident in Milan
Interview with Fire Safety Expert Dr. Alessandro Rossi
Q: Thank you for joining us, Dr. Rossi. We recently reported on a fire incident in an underground grill on Corso Vittorio Emanuele in Milan. Could you provide an overview of what might have caused such a fire in an urban setting?
A: Thank you for having me. Fires in urban areas, especially in underground facilities, can often be traced back to electrical failures or equipment malfunctions. In this case, it’s particularly concerning that two electrical substations caught fire. Such incidents highlight the need for proper maintenance of electrical systems, especially in densely populated areas like Milan. Regular inspections can prevent catastrophic failures.
Q: The witnesses reported a loud bang followed by a power outage. How common is this sequence of events in electrical fires?
A: It’s quite common. A loud bang often indicates an electrical fault, such as a short circuit. This can subsequently lead to an immediate drop in power supply—residents will normally experience a blackout shortly after. Awareness of these signs is crucial, as they can indicate that an immediate emergency response is needed.
Q: Fortunately, there were no injuries reported in this incident. What protocols are typically followed by emergency services when they respond to fires like this?
A: Emergency services take several important steps when responding to urban fires. First, they assess the situation to ensure the fire does not spread to nearby buildings, which often involves evacuating surrounding areas. Firefighters will then work to extinguish the flames while the police manage crowd control and ensure public safety. In Milan, as noted, the swift action prevented potential injuries, showcasing the effectiveness of training and preparedness within the fire service.
Q: What practical advice can you offer to residents and business owners regarding fire safety, especially in high-risk areas like Corso Vittorio Emanuele?
A: Residents and business owners should prioritize regular electrical maintenance and consider installing smoke alarms and fire extinguishers. Additionally, creating an emergency evacuation plan is crucial. Being informed about fire safety drills and local emergency services can save lives and property. Lastly, understanding how to report electrical hazards swiftly to authorities can greatly mitigate risks.
Q: In light of this incident, how can cities like Milan improve their infrastructure to prevent such fires in the future?
A: Cities need to invest in upgrading their electrical infrastructure, particularly in older districts. This includes not just routine inspections, but also retrofitting existing systems to meet modern safety standards. There should be an emphasis on integrating energy management systems that monitor electrical use in real-time. Furthermore, public awareness campaigns can help educate the community about fire safety and emergency protocols.
Q: Thank you again, Dr. Rossi, for sharing your expertise on this pressing issue. Is there anything else you’d like to add?
A: Just to stress the importance of vigilance. As urban areas continue to grow, the risks associated with potential fires increase. Awareness, education, and proactive measures can help protect communities and prevent tragedies. Thank you for having me!
Conclusion: The fire incident in Milan serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking in our cities. By understanding the implications of such events and taking proactive steps, we can enhance safety and prevent future tragedies. Stay informed, prioritize safety, and always be aware of your surroundings.