“After arriving at the scene of the accident, we found that the second floor of the building was seriously damaged. The building inspector of the City Development Department inspected the facility and prohibited operation in the part of the building where the explosion occurred, but the owner of the building was instructed to urgently invite a certified construction specialist and perform a technical inspection of the building. Temporary accommodation might be needed for seven people, two of whom – Ukrainian citizens – have already been taken to the Riga support center for Ukrainian civilians,” says E. Ratnieks.
This morning, the State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD) received a call to Sarkandaugava, where the second floor and attic of a two-story residential building were burning with an open flame. At the scene, firefighters found that two apartments, the hallway, the roof of the outer wall and the attic were on fire. The total burning area was 65 square meters. One person died and two others were injured in the building, several residents were evacuated. The building has private apartments and is managed by the owner of the building.
Currently, municipal services continue to communicate with the evacuated residents, who are offered temporary accommodation, crisis benefits, and other social assistance.
If the building is unusable after a fire or other accident, the Riga Municipality offers apartment owners both social assistance and the opportunity to settle in temporary accommodation.
For social assistance
Evacuated residents have the right to receive a crisis benefit from the municipality – up to 700 euros per person or up to 1400 euros per family.
The benefit in a crisis situation can be requested within two months from the day of the crisis situation.
Residents can apply for crisis benefits to the Riga Social Service by calling 67105048.
Residents are also invited to contact the Social Service if they need any other help, such as clothing, food packages, renewal of documents, or any other social support. More information on social assistance options is available by calling 80005055.
For temporary housing
Residents who need temporary living space are currently offered a room in a municipal hotel (up to 5 days). We invite you to contact the municipal police at 112 regarding accommodation options at the hotel.
Injured and threatened persons have the right to apply for a temporary living space and a one-time allowance for repairs in the event that the living space or the residential house has suffered as a result of an act of terrorism, natural disaster, accident or other disaster and the Department of Urban Development has made a decision to prohibit the operation of the residential house until the danger is eliminated.
In order to receive residential premises rented by the municipality, where you can stay for up to 6 months, but no longer than a year, residents should apply to the Housing and Environment Department of the Riga City Council at 49/53 Brīvības street. In case of consultations, please contact us by tel. no. 67474700.
If the premises are recognized as renovable, apartment owners will be able to apply for a one-time allowance for repairs – up to 10,000 euros.
Important! Residents can also submit submissions and apply in person for the services provided by the municipality at the Neighborhood Residents’ Center (AIC) of the city of Riga. More detailed information is available by writing to the AIC e-mail: [email protected] or by calling AIC toll-free: 80000800.
Interview between the Time.news Editor and Fire Safety Expert Dr. Anna Grineva
Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Grineva. Recent events in Sarkandaugava have highlighted some serious concerns regarding building safety and fire response measures. Can you first summarize what happened there?
Dr. Grineva: Absolutely. The incident involved a fire in a two-story residential building, which sadly resulted in one death and injuries to two others. The fire consumed significant areas of the building, including two apartments and parts of the hallway and roof. Emergency services responded quickly, but the scale of the fire raised critical questions about safety standards in such residential buildings.
Editor: Indeed. After the fire, the City Development Department prohibited operations in the damaged section of the building. What does that entail for the residents and the building owner?
Dr. Grineva: Prohibiting operation means that the damaged area is considered unsafe for occupancy until a thorough inspection and certification by a building specialist is completed. The owner must act quickly to engage certified professionals for a technical assessment. Meanwhile, the residents face the impact of displacement, which can be traumatic, particularly for those who may have lost their homes.
Editor: We understand that local authorities are providing temporary accommodation and crisis benefits for the affected residents. How crucial are these support services in the aftermath of such tragedies?
Dr. Grineva: They are absolutely essential. Immediate support services can help ease the psychological and financial burden on residents who have lost their homes. The provision of crisis benefits, up to 700 euros per person, can aid families significantly in covering initial expenses for things like lodging, food, and clothing. It’s a vital step in helping them regain a sense of normalcy.
Editor: It’s heartwarming to see municipal efforts to support victims. However, what measures can be taken to prevent such incidents in the future? Are there specific safety regulations that need to be reviewed?
Dr. Grineva: Yes, fire safety regulations need continual evaluation and implementation. Buildings should be equipped with updated fire alarm systems, extinguishers, and clear evacuation procedures. Furthermore, routine inspections must be mandated to ensure that safety standards are adhered to. Education plays a key role too—residents need to be aware of fire risks and how to respond in emergencies.
Editor: You mentioned education. How effective do you think outreach programs can be in preventing future tragedies?
Dr. Grineva: Outreach programs are invaluable. They can increase awareness about fire hazards, teach residents how to use fire safety equipment, and promote community readiness. Successful programs can foster a proactive approach to safety rather than a reactive one. This could potentially save lives in future emergencies.
Editor: As we conclude, what advice would you offer to residents in older buildings regarding fire safety precautions they should take?
Dr. Grineva: I would advise residents to be aware of their surroundings and develop a fire escape plan with their families. Regularly check smoke detectors, maintain clear exits, and avoid overloading electrical outlets. Also, engage with building management regarding any safety inspections and repairs—your voice matters when it comes to safety!
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Grineva, for sharing your insights with us today. It’s vital that communities remain vigilant and informed when it comes to fire safety.
Dr. Grineva: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial we continue discussing these important issues to create safer living environments for everyone.