A fire in the common area of an apartment building in Żebbuġ led to a swift emergency response from the Civil Protection Department, local police, and medical personnel.

Thick smoke rapidly filled the structure, prompting a precautionary evacuation of the residents as firefighters worked quickly to secure the scene, the Civil Protection Department said.

During the intense operation, crews from Stations 1 and 4 utilized a turntable ladder to safely rescue an elderly resident from the building.

Firefighters also managed to rescue two cats and one dog, ensuring all occupants and pets were brought out safely. Once the flames were extinguished, teams carried out thorough ventilation and cooling procedures to clear out lingering smoke and prevent any risk of reignition.

Authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported during the incident. Officers from the Malta Police Force District 7, the Rapid Intervention Unit, and a medical team from the Mater Dei Hospital Emergency Department were all on site to assist with the response.