2015年CRI HK Fire Department Criticized after Typhoon Shelter Blaze（在线收听）

The Shau Kei Wan Typhoon Shelter in Hong Kong has been cordoned off after a fire destroyed at least 10 boats, and injured five people on Sunday afternoon.

The cause to the fire is still under investigation.

The blaze was finally extinguished shortly before midnight, with five people suffering minor injuries, and ten boats damaged.

Initial reports say a fishing boat was the first to catch fire, and quickly spread to neighboring vessels after its anchor rope reportedly broke. Loud explosions were also heard on the other side of Victoria Harbour.

At least two fishing families have been left homeless.

A man surnamed Ng who is in charge of yachts at the Shelter has moved some of his belongings away from the scene.

"All the stuff on the boat, I will take away as much as possible, I am lucky enough to do so. I hope the fire department could deploy more fire extinguishers along the seashore, and coach the fishermen how to deal with fire," said Ng.

Some groups are criticizing the fire department, saying it did not react quickly enough. Hung Chi Kit is a Community Organizer of the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong.

"The fireboats are not ready or on stand-by. In case of emergency, distant water cannot quench a fire nearby," said Hung.

But the Fire Department has denied the allegation, saying the congested traffic at the shelter slowed the process, and windy weather is also a contributor to the fast spread of the fire.

The cause of the fire is not known yet.