Fire in Utrecht apartment building forces evacuation, 21 treated for smoke inhalation
A fire broke out Sunday morning in a basement storage unit of a 10-story apartment building on Gambiadreef in the Overvecht district of Utrecht, prompting a full evacuation due to heavy smoke, according to RTV Utrecht. The fire, which began around 11:30 a.m., has since been brought under control, according to local authorities.
Firefighters determined that the blaze was located between the ceilings of the basement storage boxes. Three fire trucks and an aerial ladder were deployed to the scene. While the fire caused significant smoke, authorities confirmed that there was no danger of the flames spreading from the basement units to the residential part of the building.
A total of 21 people were examined by ambulance personnel for possible smoke inhalation. No one required transport to a hospital.
All residents of the building—spanning 30 apartments—were evacuated. Initially, they were gathered outside before being moved to a city bus for shelter. It remains unclear when they will be allowed to return to their homes. The building must be ventilated before it can be reoccupied.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Authorities advised residents in the area to keep their doors and windows closed due to smoke in the vicinity.
