In Lithuania, the ongoing cold weather has been linked to a surge in deadly fires, with a total of 29 fatalities reported this year alone, compared to 15 at the same time last year. Authorities highlight that a significant number of these deaths were due to violations or malfunctions related to stoves, chimneys, and electrical devices, underscoring the dangers associated with improper heating methods during extremely cold conditions.

This past weekend alone, six individuals lost their lives as a result of unsafe practices, such as the incorrect installation and operation of heating devices. Additional incidents included four deaths linked to electrical equipment failures and improper smoking behaviors. The frequency of these tragedies has raised alarms, with investigators currently examining 13 fires that resulted in fatalities, in an effort to understand the underlying causes better.

One of the tragic incidents occurred in Trakai district, where a fire broke out in an abandoned building, leading to the discovery of a severely burned male body. Firefighters managed to extinguish the blaze and ensure no further hazards remained, including the removal of a gas cylinder from the flaming structure. Authorities continue to urge residents to adhere to safety guidelines to prevent such tragedies during this perilous winter season.