GEORGE TOWN: A 54-year-old man suffered burns while three terrace houses and a van were damaged after a fire broke out at Taman Hijau 2, Green Lane here on Tuesday (July 7).
Penang Fire and Rescue Department assistant director of operations John Sagun Francis said the department received an emergency call at 2.43pm and dispatched firefighters from the Jalan Perak station, with assistance from the Bayan Baru, Paya Terubong and Lebuh Pantai stations.
"Fire engines arrived at the scene, about 6km from the nearest station, at 2.54pm despite traffic congestion.
"The fire involved three permanent terrace houses measuring about 20ft by 70ft each.
"House No. 40 sustained about 80% damage, while the adjoining houses, Nos. 38 and 42, each suffered about 5% damage.
"A van was also about 80% destroyed," he said in a statement on Tuesday (July 7).
John said the occupant of House No. 40 managed to escape before firefighters arrived but suffered first-degree burns to his hands.
"He received initial treatment from personnel from the Sungai Ara Community Ambulance at the scene.
"A total of 32 firefighters from four stations, assisted by several Volunteer Fire Brigade units, battled the blaze, which was brought under control at 3.23pm," said John.
He said the cause of the fire and the estimated losses are under investigation.
