HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam – Two people were successfully rescued by firefighters on Wednesday morning after being trapped inside a burning multi-story house located deep within a narrow alley in Ho Chi Minh City. The dramatic rescue was carried out under challenging conditions as fire crews navigated the city's dense urban landscape to reach the victims.
The fire reportedly broke out in the early morning hours at a residence in Binh Thanh District, a populous area known for its narrow alleyways (known locally as hẻm). Thick, black smoke was seen billowing from the upper floors of the tube-house, quickly alerting neighbors who raised the alarm.
The Ho Chi Minh City Fire and Rescue Police Department was dispatched to the scene immediately. However, first responders faced significant difficulties as the narrowness of the alley prevented larger fire engines from gaining direct access to the blaze. Firefighters were forced to run hoses and carry equipment a considerable distance on foot to reach the burning structure.
Upon arrival, crews learned that two residents, an elderly woman and her grandson, were trapped on an upper floor, their escape route blocked by intense flames and smoke. In a coordinated effort, one team of firefighters began battling the blaze from the ground while a specialized rescue team used ladders to access a second-floor balcony where the victims had taken refuge.
"The team's professionalism and quick thinking were critical," said a captain from the Fire and Rescue Police Department. "Access was a major issue, but our training prepares us for these exact scenarios. The priority was reaching the trapped individuals before they were overcome by smoke."
Firefighters equipped with breathing apparatus managed to reach the two victims, securing them and carefully guiding them down the ladder to safety amidst the ongoing operation. Both individuals were conscious but suffering from significant smoke inhalation. They were given immediate medical attention by paramedics at the scene before being rushed to a nearby hospital, where they are reported to be in stable condition.
It took firefighters approximately one hour to bring the fire completely under control, though the house was left severely damaged.
The cause of the blaze is now under investigation. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the fire risks present in densely populated residential areas, prompting authorities to reiterate calls for public awareness regarding fire prevention and safety measures.