Elderly Man's Cigarette Ignites Oxygen Tank, Sparking Bnei Brak Nursing Home Fire

A fire that injured 24 people at a nursing home in Bnei Brak, central Israel, was caused by an elderly resident lighting a cigarette near an oxygen tank. The resident, approximately 80 years old, was initially evacuated in serious condition, but his health has since deteriorated and he is now considered critical.

The blaze broke out at the "Nes Harim" nursing home. Emergency services responded swiftly, evacuating residents and extinguishing the fire. Of the 24 injured, most suffered from smoke inhalation, with several requiring hospitalization. The critical condition of the elderly man who allegedly started the fire highlights the severe risks associated with smoking near medical equipment, especially oxygen tanks which are highly flammable.

Investigations into the exact circumstances of the fire are ongoing, but initial reports point to the elderly resident's actions as the direct cause. The nursing home administration is cooperating with authorities, and the incident has raised concerns about safety protocols for residents who may pose a risk to themselves or others.