A late-night fire at an apartment in Zhonghe, New Taipei, sent three people to the hospital, and one who took refuge in the bathroom died of smoke inhalation, the Liberty Times reported. The victim was said to be the homeowner's boyfriend, who had fled into the bathroom.

In fires, smoke inhalation is as deadly as burns. Taking refuge in an enclosed space may temporarily escape the flames but carries a high risk of exposure to toxic gases.

Experts advise evacuating quickly in a low posture during a fire and, if exits are blocked, sealing gaps with a wet towel to slow smoke and awaiting rescue.

In apartment buildings, one household's accident can spread into danger for all neighbors. Routinely checking escape routes and inspecting alarms and extinguishers makes the difference between life and death.

Sinophone Bridge Times avoids sensational description in accident coverage and conveys information to prevent similar tragedies. The way to keep a death from being in vain is to learn from it.