Exploding Gas Cylinder Retrieved As Firefighters Avert Disaster In Kahawa West

By Kepher Otieno - Reporter

Kenya, 22 December 2025 - A combined team of firefighters from Kiambu County and the Nairobi City Fire Department, retrieved a gas cylinder that had blown off and averted what could have been a major disaster on Sunday late night after successfully extinguishing a fire that broke out in a third-floor apartment in Kahawa West, Nairobi County.

The fire, which started late at night, threatened to spread rapidly to adjacent buildings and upper floors, raising fears of widespread damage in the densely populated residential area. Thanks to the swift coordination between the two firefighting units, the blaze was brought under control before it could escalate.

For residents, the night quickly turned into one of panic and uncertainty. Several tenants were jolted awake by the smell of smoke and frantic shouts, triggering a security scare as families scrambled to understand what was happening. With flames visible from the third floor, many residents rushed to evacuate, carrying valuables and household items into the darkness as they ducked for safety.

“It was terrifying,” said John Kamau, who lives near the affected apartment.

“We didn’t know how big the fire was or if it would reach our side. Everyone was just trying to save what they could.”

Nearby residents Selina Meyer and Mary Awiti also described a rough and anxious night. The two joined others in hurriedly moving property out of harm’s way before firefighters arrived in full force.

“You don’t think straight in moments like that,” Awiti said.

“You just grab what you can and pray the fire doesn’t reach you.”

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The tenants were happy that firefighters rapid response team managed to access the apartment and safely retrieve a gas cylinder suspected to have ignited the fire, a critical intervention that helped prevent further explosions and possible loss of life. Officials said the removal of the cylinder significantly reduced the risk of the fire spreading across the building.

The incident highlighted both the vulnerability of high-density housing at night and the importance of inter-county emergency cooperation. Residents praised the firefighters for their timely response, noting that the situation could have been far worse had the flames spread while most people were asleep.

And by the time the fire was fully extinguished, calm had gradually returned to Kahawa West.

While no casualties were reported, the incident left many residents shaken, serving as a reminder of how quickly ordinary nights can turn into emergencies—and how preparedness and rapid response can make the difference between containment and catastrophe.