Senator James Sanders Jr. (D-Queens) was disheartened to hear of the woman who lost her life in the early Monday morning apartment fire in Far Rockaway, Queens.

The unidentified 71-year-old woman lost her life after flames broke out on the 15th floor of the building at 7-11 Seagirt Avenue, according to fire officials. It was reported that the fire was accidental, caused by smoking, and no smoke alarm was in the home.

“Such a tragedy,” said Senator Sanders. “Her death could have possibly been prevented if the proper precautions were in place.”

Fire officials said the fire started around 2 am. After it was put under control the unconscious woman was discovered and died at the scene.

Senator Sanders reminds constituents to conduct fire safety checks around the home. He advises to never leave open flames unattended, make sure smoke and carbon detectors operate, have exits easily accessible in the event of an emergency and to properly distinguish candles and cigarettes.