Attorney
The US Fire Administration ranks Washington, D.C. as the deadliest location in the United States regarding fires. For the most recent statistics available, the national average for deaths per million people is 13.2. Washington, D.C. led the nation at 39.2, substantially outdistancing the state in second, Mississippi with 28.4. If a fire has injured you or a loved one, a Washington, D.C. personal injury lawyer is available to help you obtain compensation for injuries and suffering.
Earlier in the month, authorities had to evacuate guests from two hotels several blocks away from the White House after an electrical fire broke out. The two hotels are both located at the 1400 block of F Street NW. Investigators believe a transformer blew out at around 8 pm and started the underground fire. Approximately 150 DC firefighters responded to the scene and saw flames reaching 20 to 30 feet in the sky along with thick, black smoke. Fortunately, firefighters were able to extinguish the fire, and there were no injuries. Guests were able to return to their rooms around 11 pm.
There are many fire dangers to guests staying in a hotel. It is the duty of hotel owners and managers to ensure their guests’ safety, but sometimes they cut corners. Hotels should have fire extinguishers located throughout the property, and hotel staff should regularly inspect fire alarms to ensure that they are functioning properly. Escape routes should be throughout the hotel and easy to read. Hotel furnishings like sofas, chairs, beds, and cushions should all be fire-resistant.
To learn more about preventing fires or obtaining compensation for injuries suffered in a fire, contact David M. Schloss, a Washington, D.C. personal injury attorney, at Koonz, McKenney, Johnson & DePaolis L.L.P.