Brussels Faces Spike in House Fires

Brussels is grappling with a significant increase in vehicle fire incidents, alongside a troubling rise in house fires, with nearly 500 reported this year. The municipalities of City of Brussels and St. Gilles have been particularly affected, with the total number of house fires expected to surpass last year's count of 743 and the 777 recorded in 2022. While only one fire has resulted in a fatality this year, the destruction of homes and injuries to occupants remain pressing concerns. Firefighters have seen a marked increase in callouts, rising from 2,204 in 2012 to 3,813 in 2022. The City of Brussels has recorded 117 fire incidents this year alone, with certain areas, particularly those prone to summer risks, experiencing higher rates. Districts such as Schaerbeek, Anderlecht, and Molenbeek are also reporting similar trends, raising alarms about the overall fire safety in the region. Financial constraints are hindering residents' ability to implement fire safety measures, such as insulation and smoke alarms. Currently, smoke alarms are mandatory only in rented properties, but starting January 1, 2025, all homes in Brussels will be required to have them. The ongoing energy crisis in Belgium has left many families struggling, with some resorting to dangerous practices like using barbecues indoors for warmth, which poses severe risks of carbon monoxide poisoning and fire hazards. As the situation escalates, authorities are under pressure to enhance fire safety measures and address the underlying issues contributing to this alarming trend.