TURKEY: Survivors of the recent fire at the Grand Kartal Hotel in Kartalkaya have expressed grave concerns about the safety measures in place at the establishment. Many reported that fire alarms failed to activate during the incident, leaving guests unaware of the danger until it was too late. This has sparked outrage and calls for stricter enforcement of safety regulations in hotels across the region.
The absence of fire escapes has also drawn significant criticism. Several guests noted that they had no clear exit routes, forcing them to navigate through smoke-filled corridors to find a way out. This lack of basic fire safety infrastructure has led to widespread condemnation of the hotel management and raised questions about how the property passed safety inspections.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident to determine whether the hotel adhered to mandatory safety standards. Officials are examining records and inspecting the site to identify any violations. If negligence is proven, the hotel management could face severe penalties, and this case may serve as a precedent for improving fire safety enforcement in Turkey.
The tragedy has also sparked discussions about broader fire safety awareness and preparedness. Advocates are urging for regular drills, better equipment, and stricter oversight to prevent similar occurrences. Guests are advised to inquire about fire safety measures when booking accommodations to ensure their safety and peace of mind.
