Fire leaves nine families homeless

JAKARTA: Nine families on Jl. Mardani III in Cempaka Putih, Central Jakarta, were left homeless after fire destroyed their houses on Christmas day.

Investigations have shown that the fire was ignited by an electrical short circuit.

Besides the nine houses, several other homes were also badly damaged, but no injuries were reported.

The fire occurred at 10:40 a.m., and was successfully extinguished an hour later after joint efforts by local residents and firefighting crews from 14 fire engines.

Hashim, one of the firefighters, appealed to the public, especially during the holiday season, to be aware of the condition of their homes.

"Before leaving the houses, make sure that all electric devices are off," he said. --JP