An elderly woman has died following a fire in a high-rise apartment building on the Gold Coast.
Emergency services responded to reports of smoke alarms at the Neptune Resort in Broadbeach just after 11am today. The resort, located on Surf Parade, contains a mix of both holiday and residential apartments.
Emergency Response and Evacuation
Surfers Paradise Fire and Rescue station officer Glenn McKissack reported that the fire broke out in the bedroom of a level three apartment, where the woman was found. The unit was described as being heavily smoke-logged and full of flames.
“They’ve done an amazing job to get into that unit, which was heavily smoke logged and full of flames and remove that elderly lady out to QAS,” McKissack said.
The entire building was evacuated during the incident. While the fire was contained to the specific unit, smoke traveled throughout the building, resulting in smoke logging on levels four and five.
Casualties and Medical Treatment
A Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) spokesperson confirmed that six people were treated at the scene. This includes one individual currently in a life-threatening condition.
one person was taken to the Gold Coast University Hospital due to smoke inhalation. Approximately 20 firefighters from four crews responded to the scene to manage the incident.
Investigation Underway
A crime scene has been declared at the Broadbeach high-rise. Police and fire department investigators are expected to assess the apartment to determine the circumstances surrounding the fire.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the fire take place?
The fire occurred at the Neptune Resort in Broadbeach on Surf Parade.
How many people were treated by emergency services?
Six people were treated at the scene, including one person in a life-threatening condition and one person taken to the hospital for smoke inhalation.
What is the current status of the investigation?
A crime scene has been declared, and police and fire investigators are assessing the apartment.
What safety measures do you believe are most important for high-rise residential buildings?