Failure of fire alarms could have delayed rescue, cost lives, expert says

The failure of fire alarms in the deadly Tai Po blaze could have delayed the response and evacuation of residents, according to a leading Hong Kong fire safety specialist.

Anthony Lam Chun-man, a former director of the city’s Fire Services Department (FSD), also said the extreme heat and intense flames both inside and outside made it almost impossible for firefighters to enter to fight the blaze and rescue survivors.

On Friday, officials said the alarms in all eight blocks of Wang Fuk Court did not sound during the department’s previous tests.

“That can be fatal. Residents at their home just did not know there had been a fire,” Lam said. “A minute’s delay in responding can significantly increase the amount of fire damage and make the difference between life and death.”

The revelation also confirmed reports from some survivors, who said they were unaware of the impending danger because they did not hear any alarms when the blaze first broke out on Wednesday.

One resident, surnamed Lee, told reporters he only learned of the fire when his wife rang him.