After the tragedy in Crans-Montana: Germany offers assistance
40 dead, 119 injured: following the bar fire in Crans-Montana, Germany is becoming one of the key treatment hubs.
Crans-Montana (dpa) – The treatment of the victims of the fire tragedy in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, most of whom were seriously injured, is becoming a Europe-wide challenge. With its numerous clinics specialising in burn injuries,Germany is in particularly high demand.
Four patients were admitted within a short period of time after the disaster on New Year’s Eve, and arrangements are under way for the treatment of a further seven, the Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK) said on Friday evening. German hospitals have also offered additional transport and treatment capacity.
The disaster occurred when a bar in the ski resort of Crans-Montana caught fire in the early hours of New Year’s Day. Many young people were unable to escape, or only managed to do so with serious injuries. A total of 40 people were killed, while 119 sustained mostly severe burn injuries. Treatment may take months, depending on the severity.