Lethal games with fire

More than 4 000 people have died as a result of fires in Russia in the course of the first months of 2004, reported Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations.

“More than 36 000 fires have been registered in the Russian Federation in January-February 2004. More than 4 000 people have died, including 139 children. More than 2 000 people have been seriously wounded,” stated a representative of the communications department of the Ministry in his interview to “Interfax” Friday.

He also stated that rescuers managed to save lives of more than 19 people and save material possessions worth more than 5,7 billion rubles.

“Practically all federal regions, except Moscow, have significant reduction of fires. An increasing number of victims of fires has been registered in the Far East,” said the Ministry's representative.

“Unattended candles, ovens, electrical appliances turned out to be main causes of fire. Also, a number of fires has risen due to increasing number of arsons,” stated he. 

Source: NewsRu