The deadly blaze at New Lucky House that killed five people and injured 43 shows that fire safety laws will not save residents unless they are enforced. While amending the Fire Safety (Buildings) Ordinance is a good start, Hong Kong must also address residents’ economic woes and tensions among stakeholders.
A preliminary investigation suggests blaze started when piles of plastic rubbish bags burst into flames at the first floor of New Lucky House in Yau Ma Tei.