A car caught fire on Monday on Santa Rosa Street in the Barracones neighborhood, an area near the port of Santiago de Cuba, causing alarm among residents and strong criticism of the fire department's response.
The news was shared on Facebook by independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada, who posted a video of the incident.
According to eyewitnesses, the damaged vehicle was a yellow taxi. A young woman remarked that the driver had the car well maintained and the gas tank was full, "the problem is that one doesn't choose misfortunes."
Fortunately, the occupants of the car were able to escape in time.
A neighbor noted that there were no injuries, but a nearby house was struck by the flames, which heightened the tension in the area.
The fire started right beneath electrical wires, causing concern and even panic among those present.
"People are screaming like that because the fire was underneath some power cables, and we miraculously had power, and they were scared," explained a resident.
The firefighters' actions were the subject of harsh criticism from those who witnessed the fire.
A woman expressed frustration at the slow response: "The firefighters were so calm in getting the hose out when they arrived, it's infuriating. It's true that on TV it's one thing, but in real life it's another."
Another person added, "Those firefighters go calmly and hungry; otherwise, they wouldn't have gone."
The incident, although it did not result in any human casualties, highlights both the vulnerability of infrastructure in urban areas and the public perception of the inefficiency of emergency services.
The causes of the fire have not yet been clarified by the authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fires in Santiago de Cuba and the Response of Emergency Services
What happened to the taxi that caught fire in Santiago de Cuba?
A yellow taxi caught fire in the Barracones neighborhood of Santiago de Cuba, causing alarm among the residents. Fortunately, the occupants were able to get out in time, and there were no injuries, although a nearby house was affected by the flames.
Why is the performance of the firefighters being criticized in the taxi fire in Santiago de Cuba?
The actions of the firefighters were criticized by witnesses of the fire due to their slow response to the incident. The public perception of the inefficiency of emergency services was evident during the event, as the firefighters were seen as too calm and slow in their actions.
What are the possible causes of the frequent vehicle fires in Cuba?
Vehicle fires in Cuba can be attributed to various factors, such as electrical failures, fuel issues, and the use of lithium batteries in electric vehicles. The lack of proper maintenance and fuel adulteration are also potential causes that contribute to these incidents.
What safety measures are recommended to prevent vehicle fires in Cuba?
It is recommended to carry out regular maintenance on vehicles, remain alert to potential electrical failures, and issues with fuel. It is crucial to have a fire extinguisher in the vehicle to quickly control fires and prevent the flames from spreading. However, obtaining a fire extinguisher in Cuba can be challenging, making this safety measure essential for drivers.
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