A Sunday morning nightclub fire, that killed 230 people, certainly has affected people in Brazil, where the fire happened, more than anywhere else. However, the aftermath has also hit home right here in Michiana.
"I couldn't believe so many people managed to be harmed without any safety features or anything helping them out," said Cody Mason, a Notre Dame Student.
Although the fire occurred over 5,000 miles away from South Bend, it brings fire safety concerns for people in Michiana at local clubs and bars.
"You know I wouldn't like always be looking out for the red exit signs, but it definitely makes me a little cautious and have my friends a little more aware of it to because you have to have your friends back and what not," said Brian Bredemann, Notre Dame Student. "So it definitely gets me more aware."
Local Bars and Clubs say it is important to have the foresight to plan for something like this. The people at Corby's in South Bend say they know just what to do if a fire started in their business.
"Have the bouncers on board letting everybody know, god forbid, what to do if a situation like [the Brazil fire] happens, make sure everybody gets out," said Joe Mittiga, who's family owns Corby's. "We're blessed here, I have more exits than I actually need according to the codes."
Some people think even with plans in place and plenty of exits it still could be tough to get out especially when people are panicking.
"It depends on the crowd and it depends on the night. It may cause problems on a Friday or Saturday night if you are in a crowded bar," said Justin Matthews, a Michiana resident. "I could see how that could easily happen and I could see how your safety could be in danger."
Both bars and their customers agree though, the catastrophe in Brazil has once again reminded people that it is important to be prepared.
"It just kind made me think, just now, that something like this is possible," said Mason.
The owner at Corby's also says its really important for clubs and bars to make sure they are not allowing shows with pyrotechnics, because that is a common cause in many bar fires. Pyrotechnics were the suspected cause of the Brazil fire.
A person working at the Linebacker in South Bend, said that not only would they get people out of the doors if a fire broke out, but they also would break through windows if need be.
