Nurse-Firefighter Leaps Into Action During Lehigh Valley Hospital Blaze

David Spalding, a registered nurse and volunteer firefighter, rushed to help battle a fire that broke out at LVH-Dickson City earlier this month.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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When a fire broke out at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Dickson City, David Spalding, a registered nurse at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest and a volunteer firefighter of over 23 years, immediately responded to the scene. Despite not being on duty, Spalding arrived at the hospital and assisted firefighters in extinguishing the blaze that led to the evacuation of 77 patients and the entire hospital staff. There were no injuries or deaths associated with the fire.

Why it matters

Spalding's actions highlight the dedication and versatility of healthcare workers, who often go above and beyond their regular duties to help their communities. His ability to seamlessly transition from his nursing role to firefighting duties during an emergency situation showcases the valuable skillsets that many medical professionals possess.

The details

When the fire broke out at the hospital's orthopedic center, Spalding, who lives over an hour away, rushed to the scene. He immediately offered his assistance to the fire chief, who was surprised to see him there. Spalding and about six other firefighters went up on the roof, where the bulk of the damage was, to remove certain sections and look for spots that were still smoldering. They then moved to the first floor to extinguish any areas where the fire may have extended. Due to the freezing temperatures, the hoses froze, which made the process more challenging, but Spalding and the team were able to save the majority of the hospital.

  • The fire broke out at LVH-Dickson City on February 4, 2026.
  • Spalding arrived on the scene shortly after the fire started.

The players

David Spalding

A registered nurse at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest and a volunteer firefighter of over 23 years, who responded to the fire at LVH-Dickson City.

Bob Begliomini

The president of Jefferson Health's Lehigh Valley Region, who praised Spalding's commitment and the work of the firefighters in saving the hospital.

Lehigh Valley Hospital-Dickson City

The hospital where the fire broke out, leading to the evacuation of 77 patients and the entire hospital staff.

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What they’re saying

“When I arrived on scene, I went up to my chief, who was obviously a little bit surprised to see me. And I was like, 'Hey what do you need me to do? How can I get to work?'”

— David Spalding, Nurse and Volunteer Firefighter (The Morning Call)

“The nurses and the staff there did an incredible job. The fact that by the time I got there, I didn't have to affect any rescue. The credit really goes to them.”

— David Spalding, Nurse and Volunteer Firefighter (The Morning Call)

“His commitment is over the top, I'd say. An incredible story, we are really proud of him.”

— Bob Begliomini, President, Jefferson Health's Lehigh Valley Region (The Morning Call)

What’s next

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but the hospital has been able to reopen with most key services restored, including the emergency department, some inpatient beds, the surgery department, and the critical care unit. Jefferson Health is in the process of relocating the orthopedic practice and rehabilitation services outside the hospital and is working to completely restore the building.

The takeaway

Spalding's actions during the LVH-Dickson City fire demonstrate the invaluable role that healthcare workers can play in emergency situations, leveraging their medical expertise and training to support their communities. His willingness to go above and beyond his regular duties highlights the dedication and versatility of many in the medical field.