China Fire Tragedy in Shantou Claims 12 Lives as Safety Fears Rise

At least 12 people died in a China fire in Shantou, Guangdong. The blaze hit a self-built home late Monday night. It spread fast and trapped families inside. Local officials said the fire broke out in a mixed-use block in Chaonan district.

The event raised fresh fear over safety in self-built homes. These buildings are common in southern China. Many have weak wiring and limited exits. According to Reuters, officials opened a full probe into the cause.

China Fire Officials Launch Major Safety Review After Deadly Blaze

The fire burned about 150 square metres of the four-storey block. The ground floor held a small shop that sold home goods and electric items. Many homes in the area use the same setup. Officials say such layouts often slow escape during fires.

Emergency teams put out the flames in about 40 minutes. But it was too late for many inside. A local woman told reporters she lost four family members. Her loss showed the harsh toll of the event.

Guangdong leaders set up a task force to review safety lapses. Police, inspectors, and fire experts joined the team. They plan to check wiring, exits, and building standards. The review is part of wider steps across China after recent deadly fires.

Hong Kong saw a massive blaze last month. It killed more than 160 people. That fire brought strong orders from Beijing for tighter checks. Cities across China now push new fire rules. According to AP News, many regions also target electric bike storage and blocked stairways.

How the Shantou Fire Could Change Urban Safety Rules Across China

The Shantou fire may bring new rules for mixed-use homes. Many towns depend on these homes for small family shops. But weak rules and old wiring raise risks. Inspectors may now require new exit routes and safer shop setups.

The event also raised public worry. Many families in crowded districts live in the same type of homes. They fear the same risks. Local leaders may push for fast repairs and strict checks.

Cities like Beijing and Tianjin already launched long campaigns. They target flammable goods, indoor smoking, and poor storage. More cities may join. The Shantou case now acts as a warning for local officials across China.

The China fire in Shantou shows the need for stronger safety steps. The probe may guide new national rules. The event also shows how fast old risks can turn deadly.

Thought you’d like to know-

Q1: What caused the China fire in Shantou?

Officials have not confirmed the cause yet. They are checking wiring, exits, and shop materials. A full review is now under way.

Q2: Where did the fire start?

The blaze began in a self-built home in Chaonan district. The ground floor was used as a shop. Flames spread quickly through the building.

Q3: How many people died?

At least 12 people died, according to state media. Rescue teams reached the site fast but could not save those trapped.

Q4: Why are self-built homes risky?

Many have old wiring and few exits. Some also use barred windows. These issues make escape hard during a fire.

Q5: What steps will China take now?

Officials will run new checks in many cities. They aim to fix wiring issues and remove fire hazards. More rules may follow soon.