(4 March 2026 | Source: Instagram page of the Emergency Department of the Abay region)
In the evening of 3 March, a children's entertainment centre, BALA PARK, caught fire in Semey. A report of the fire was received at 19:08, after which fire crews were dispatched to the scene. By the time the rescuers arrived, there was already heavy smoke and open flames inside the building.
HOW THE FIRE STARTED
According to the Department for Emergency Situations (DES), the fire broke out in the centre's play area. Inside the building, the flames quickly spread over a large area. The department noted that the intense fire was fuelled by a large quantity of combustible materials.
According to the centre's management, visitors and staff evacuated themselves.
WHEN THE FIRE WAS EXTINGUISHED
The fire covered an area of 3,100 sq m.
The fire was contained at 20:30 and fully extinguished at 22:08. After this, firefighters began dismantling structures and checking the premises for hidden smouldering hotspots.
HOW MANY SERVICES WORKED AT THE SCENE
Several services were involved in extinguishing the fire:
- Department for Emergency Situations (DES) — 120 people and 23 units of equipment
- Disaster Medicine Centre (DMC) — 3 people and 1 unit of equipment
- Police Department (PD) — 75 people and 9 units of equipment
- Emergency Medical Service (EMS) — 15 people and 5 units of equipment
The mayor of Semey, Adlet Nursagatovich, reported that the situation was under control.
WHO NEEDED MEDICAL ASSISTANCE
According to the Health Department of the Abay region, six people sought medical help after the fire.
One adult was hospitalised with carbon monoxide poisoning. The others were discharged home after being examined by doctors.
Three people — two adults and one child — refused examination and left the medical facility of their own accord. Another two children were taken to the regional children's hospital by private transport; after examination, their condition was deemed satisfactory.