Tokyo: A fire at an apartment building in Kobe in western Japan killed four men and left four in critical condition on Sunday, an official said. The fire department was alerted to the fire in the three-storey building by an emergency call at around 1:30 am (1630 GMT Saturday). Four bodies were found after it was extinguished.

Four other men, aged between their 40s and 70s, "were taken to hospital unconscious", Masatoshi Sumitani at the Kobe fire department s

Most of the occupants of the building were believed to be elderly men, Japanese media reports said, citing other residents of the building.

Black smoke could be seen coming out of a window on the first floor when the fire broke out, Kyodo News reported.

Police will begin investigating the cause of the fire later on Sunday

The incident in Kobe is a tragic reminder of the importance of fire safety, especially in residential buildings. According to the Japan Fire and Disaster Management Agency, there were over 130,000 fires in Japan in 2021 alone, resulting in over 800 deaths.

Fire departments around the country conduct regular fire safety campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and evacuation plans. It is crucial for individuals, especially the elderly and those living alone, to have a fire safety plan in place and to regularly check smoke detectors and other safety equipment.

In addition to taking preventive measures, it is also important to know what to do in the event of a fire. The Japan Fire and Disaster Management Agency recommends that individuals remain calm, call for help, and evacuate the building immediately, without stopping to gather belongings. Knowing the location of emergency exits and having a designated meeting place outside the building can also save precious time and prevent confusion during an emergency.

As the investigation into the cause of the fire in Kobe continues, it is important to reflect on the need for continued vigilance and preparedness in the face of potential disasters.

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