The Civil Engineering Portal - Failure Watch

Rhode Island Nightclub Fire
Date: Feburary 21, 2003
Description:

A pyrotechnics display ignited the stage of a Rhode Island nightclub, which caused the blaze to spread throughout the building. At least 98 people were killed and 160 injured.
Links:

AP via StatesMan: Michigan Club Raided, Cited for Fire Risk

AP via ABC News: Reports on R.I. Club Don't Mention Foam

AP via ABC News: Questions Raised Over Role of Foam in RI Club Fire

Guardian Unlimited: Club Co-Owner Did Report on Foam Dangers

Boston Globe Online: Lower-cost foam used at nightclub

Capital News 9: Rhode Island Nightclub fire

AP via Centre Daily: Pyrotechnics Used at Club Usually Safe

Zwire: Death Trap

Guardian Unlimited: Providence TV Station Captures Club Fire

New York Times: Death Toll Rises in Rhode Island Nightclub Fire

Boston Channel: Building Codes Can Vary From Town To Town

FireHouse: Clubs: Band Didn't Warn on Pyrotechnics

AP via ABC News: Death Toll Rises to 95 in R.I. Club Fire

Consulting-Specifying Engineer: NFPA Acts Quickly to Address Nightclub Disasters