Old Zhiguli car damaged in garage fire in Lasnamäe

On Sunday, 2 August, at 9:54, the emergency centre received a call reporting burning garage boxes on Vesse Street in Lasnamäe, Tallinn. The caller said an old Zhiguli car was on fire in one of the boxes, and that flames and smoke were threatening the neighbouring units. The building also housed a boiler room, the Põhja Rescue Centre said.

Rescuers from Kesklinn, Lasnamäe and Pirita, along with an ambulance crew and police, rushed to the scene. On arrival, firefighters saw smoke escaping from under the roof and immediately began extinguishing the fire. In parallel, five adjacent garage boxes were opened to prevent the flames from spreading further.

The blaze was brought under control by 10:17. The garage containing the Zhiguli suffered the most extensive damage, while other boxes were covered in soot.

Medical workers examined two people at the scene, but they did not need hospitalisation. Two rescuers who had inhaled smoke were also checked; one was taken to hospital by ambulance for further examination. After being assessed, he was able to resume his shift.

The likely cause of the fire is believed to be related to hot work. Welding was being carried out under the car, and a spark probably ignited the blaze.