Major fire in multi-party house in Kematen an der Ybbs caused by cigarette in flower pot

The fire department responded with a large contingent to fight the flames and rescue the trapped residents. The scale of the operation was reflected in the number of evacuees: according to consistent reports, more than 40 people had to leave the building. Replacement accommodation was organized for the families and individuals affected by the fire, so that no resident was left without shelter.

Large deployment of fire department and Red Cross

Based on the current state of investigation, a cigarette in a flower pot is suspected as the cause of the fire. Butts in pots with dry soil or bark are a well-known and dangerous source of ignition, as the organic material catches fire quickly and the flames can then spread to nearby curtains, furniture, or balcony furnishings. The final clarification of the cause, however, remains subject to the investigations.

Suspected cause: Cigarette in flower pot

In addition to the fire department, the Red Cross was also on site with a larger number of personnel. The Red Cross service point in Kematen coordinated the care of the evacuees together with the district office in Amstetten. Injuries and the exact number of hospitalized residents were not listed in detail in the available sources; what was reported was the deployment of the rescue services for initial medical care.

The incident command also called in surrounding fire departments from the Heidewald area and beyond to ensure the water supply and to have enough respiratory protection teams at the scene. Multiple hose lines were laid, and the adjacent road was temporarily closed to through traffic. Only after several hours could "fire out" be reported according to consistent reports, with mop-up operations and checks continuing into the evening.

Replacement accommodation and care for the evacuees

The district of Amstetten and the municipality of Kematen an der Ybbs provided replacement accommodation, including in nearby inns and gymnasiums. The state of Lower Austria also set up a coordination staff to organize the further housing of the displaced residents. Psychological first aid was also offered, as many residents have lost the majority of their belongings.

Investigations into the exact cause of the fire

Parallel to the rescue and firefighting operations, initial investigations into the sequence of events were underway. The police have launched investigations into the exact cause of the fire, with the apartment in which the blaze is believed to have broken out currently being examined. Based on the available sources, there are no indications of intentional arson; rather, the evidence points to a negligently discarded cigarette as the trigger.

For the residents in the local area of Kematen an der Ybbs, the incident remains a shock. Many residents had gathered at the assembly point after the evacuation and initially had to make do without documents and personal belongings. The municipality and aid organizations registered those affected in order to coordinate the distribution of clothing, hygiene items, and emergency accommodation. In the coming days, initial fundraising appeals and an official donation account announcement are expected.