What images and videos tell us about why Swiss bar fire spread so quickly
Summary
A fire on New Year's Eve at a bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, spread quickly, resulting in at least 40 deaths and 119 injuries. Investigators believe the fire started from sparklers attached to champagne bottles that were held too close to the ceiling, and they are examining the bar's safety measures and ceiling materials to understand how the fire intensified.Key Facts
- The fire occurred at a bar called Le Constellation in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, on New Year's Eve.
- At least 40 people died, and 119 were injured, many seriously, in the fire.
- Investigators think the fire began from sparklers on champagne bottles held near the ceiling.
- BBC Verify used images and videos to help understand the fire's spread and confirmed their authenticity.
- Foam-like padding on the bar’s ceiling, possibly made from highly flammable polyurethane, may have contributed to the rapid spread.
- Experts note that untreated polyurethane foam is highly flammable and can accelerate fire growth.
- Swiss authorities are investigating the compliance of the ceiling material with safety standards.
- A "flashover" may have occurred, which is when rising hot gases ignite a room quickly, making escape difficult.
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