GEORGE TOWN: His body lay just a few metres from the exit.
Initial checks showed the foreign worker in his 50s had suffered only first-degree burns, which affect the outer skin layer.
Found on the floor with his clothes and shoes unburned after the blaze at the former Odeon cinema building along Jalan Penang last Saturday, he was believed to have died from smoke inhalation, a common cause of death in building fires, said Penang Fire and Rescue Department director Mohamad Shoki Hamzah (pic) yesterday.
“Before the fire reaches you, the smoke comes first.
“The smoke can build up quickly and become so thick you cannot even see your hands in front of you.
“The smoke has carbon monoxide and toxic gases from burning plastic, foam and other synthetic materials,” he said.
Mohamad Shoki said getting out should be the top priority.
“The moment you smell smoke, stay low. Hot air rises, so smoke and poisonous gases rise too,” he said.
In thick smoke, he said people should get down on their hands and knees and crawl to the nearest exit.
“If you are still choking, get down flat and crawl on your belly.
“With the heat, smoke and gases are pushed towards the ceiling. The air a few inches from the floor may be cooler and cleaner,” he said.
He said most buildings have self-powered “Keluar” (Exit) signs marking escape routes.
“Some buildings even have emergency guiding lines. Follow them to the nearest exit,” he said.
Mohamad Shoki said those trapped could cover their noses and mouths with a wet cloth but should not waste time looking for one.
He warned against opening doors without checking first.
“Feel a closed door before opening it. If it is hot or smoke is coming through, don’t open it,” he said.
Even when no danger is expected, doors should be opened slowly and shut immediately if fire or heavy smoke is on the other side.
Mohamad Shoki said staircases should always be used instead of lifts during emergencies.
“Once you have escaped, stay outside. Do not go back in for your belongings,” he said.
The blaze that gutted the former Odeon cinema building was first reported at 8.50pm last Saturday. About 70% of the building was destroyed.
