A fire broke out Wednesday morning, generating a thick column of black smoke in the area of Vía Blanca, close to the October 10th Clinical Surgical Teaching Hospital, often referred to as “La Dependiente,” in Havana. Initial reports from LaTijera News suggest the blaze began in a pit filled with waste from two fuel tanks, which led to the large smoke plume visible from various parts of the capital.
Firefighting teams swiftly responded to the scene, successfully containing the fire and preventing it from reaching the main storage tanks, according to the report. Fortunately, there were no casualties or significant structural damages, as confirmed by witnesses and institutional sources.
Later, the October 10th Hospital announced via social media that the fire was "accidental," originating in a green area perimeter, presumably due to a cigarette butt discarded by an unknown individual. The blaze was extinguished within 15 minutes by a "human chain" comprising hospital staff, including doctors, nurses, and service personnel.
During the incident, a neighboring school was evacuated as a precaution, with students and staff returning to normal activities once the flames were subdued. The report clarified that the area where the fire started was being cleared as part of regular cleaning and maintenance of the hospital’s green spaces.
Following the containment of the fire, the medical center resumed its standard operations without prolonged disruptions. In recent months, Havana has witnessed several fires, some linked to urban micro-dumps or negligent civilian behavior.
In August, residents of Centro Habana set a garbage dump ablaze due to uncollected waste, while in July, a child caused a fire by mishandling a lighter, resulting in material damage to a residential area. Fire authorities have expressed concern over the increasing fire risk in the city and have urged more caution, although public anxiety remains due to ineffective measures and delayed responses by state services to such emergencies.
Understanding the Causes and Responses to Fires in Havana
What caused the recent fire near the October 10th Hospital in Havana?
The fire was reportedly accidental, starting in a green area perimeter possibly due to a discarded cigarette butt by an unknown person.
How was the fire at the October 10th Hospital extinguished?
The fire was put out within 15 minutes by a "human chain" consisting of hospital staff, including medical and service personnel.
What measures are being taken to prevent fires in Havana?
Fire authorities have called for increased caution and attention to preventible causes, although there remains public concern about the effectiveness of state measures and the timeliness of emergency responses.