NONTHABURI: A fire destroyed three homes in a residential community behind Wat Pracharangsan early on New Year's Day, with initial reports suggesting that celebratory fireworks may have been the cause. The blaze, which occurred shortly after midnight, prompted a swift response from local authorities and fire services.
According to Thai News Agency, the incident was reported to Pol. Col. Somchai Chaengthamma, Superintendent of Bang Sri Muang Police Station, at around 12:30 a.m. Firefighters from Bang Sri Muang Police Station responded with eight water trucks to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading further. The firefighting efforts lasted more than 30 minutes, eventually bringing the blaze under control.
The fire originated in a two-story wooden house in an alley, complicating access for emergency vehicles. The flames quickly spread, engulfing three homes in total. Residents and firefighters managed to prevent the fire from advancing further, although the affected structures were severely damaged. Initial assessments of the damage are currently underway.
Local resident Mr. A, who witnessed the incident, recounted hearing a noise resembling an explosion around midnight, followed by the onset of the fire. Despite efforts to control the flames, three houses were already ablaze by the time he contacted emergency services. He speculated that fireworks used during New Year's celebrations might have ignited the blaze, as the fire started immediately after the countdown.
Ms. Chutikarn, whose home was among those destroyed, described her harrowing experience. She was awakened by the sound of fireworks and alerted by her child that a fire had broken out. Despite the destruction, all five people in her household safely evacuated. Ms. Chutikarn expressed her distress, noting that her home was reduced to ashes and she was unsure of her next steps, although she expressed gratitude that her family was unharmed.
Pol. Col. Somchai confirmed that the fire affected three houses, two of which were rental properties. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. The initial investigation suggests that fireworks may have ignited the fire, but further inspection of the scene and interviews with residents and witnesses will be conducted to determine the exact cause.