Tragic fire

The tragic fire at a retirement home in Manado, Indonesia, which claimed the lives of 16 elderly residents, is a heartbreaking reminder of the vulnerability of older people in care facilities (“Fire at Indonesian retirement home kills 16 older residents,” Dec.29, Gulf Today website).

That the blaze broke out while residents were asleep makes the loss even more devastating, raising urgent questions about safety standards, emergency preparedness, and supervision.

Elderly residents often have limited mobility, slower reaction times, and greater dependence on caregivers, making robust fire prevention measures not just advisable but essential. Smoke alarms, fire-resistant building materials, regular safety drills, and trained overnight staff should be non-negotiable in such facilities.

As populations age across Asia and beyond, the demand for retirement and care homes will only grow. This tragedy must serve as a wake-up call for authorities to review regulations, enforce compliance, and prioritise the dignity and safety of senior citizens.

Our thoughts are with the families grieving an irreplaceable loss.

Waqas Majeed,

By email