These killer club fires share a sad smilarity because they are almost always the same “perfect storm” of fire friendly conditions, overcrowding and poor (to non-existant) accessiblity for the exits.
The most ironic thing (to me) about the incident is that I know a woman who was supposed to be there that night, but cancelled at the last moment because she has a panic disorder and had an attack right before the show. I always relate the story to people because something that is so socially and occupationally disabling actually saved her life.
The problem due to inhalation was not only the burning soundproofing foam, but the fact that the foam was covered with a highly flammable spray paint that made it even more toxic.
As far as the other problems in general, it was a club that was over its maximum occupancy, didn’t have sprinklers, some exit doors opened inward instead of outward and the stage exit door was being blocked by a bouncer only allowing band/staff members to use that exit, turning several people away from the exit after the fire started. 31 of the 100 bodies were recovered from the front entrance area alone.
We can think from the safety of our couches that we would just get low to avoid smoke, but good luck doing that when you are already surrounded by a stampede of people in the pitch black and fire at your back.
Such a tragic event. I’m so glad they finally erected a beautiful memorial at the site that not only honors those that perished, but gives so much information so that we don’t forget.