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No word was given on the cause of the fire, which broke out
shortly after noon, but images from the scene showed huge flames
spurting from the windows and doors of the two- or three-story
building.
A slightly longer report released several hours later through
the provincial radio and television bureau said the fire had
been extinguished and the search for survivors ended. As is
usual in China, no additional information was given about the
possible cause of the fire. However, a long list of responding
regional politicians — from the governor down — was provided,
along with a pledge to get to the bottom of the disaster and
severely punish those responsible.
Industrial accidents occur frequently in China, usually due to
staff ignoring safety features due to a lack of training or
pressure from their superiors.
Poorly maintained infrastructure, illegally stored chemicals and
a lack of fire exits and fire retardant, often abetted by
corruption, are often factors in such disasters.
If the fire began in the kitchen, it may be related to the
traditional use of large open fires over which iron woks are
used to braise dishes. Diners across China also enjoy a dish
known simply as “hot pot” in which meat and vegetables are
stewed over open flames.
Liaoyang, in Liaoning province, is part of China's rust belt, a
former industrial powerhouse that has fallen on hard times with
considerable population outflow.
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