Patients Evacuated After Fire Tears Through Pennsylvania Hospital

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A fire broke out on the roof of a medical office building at the Lehigh Valley Hospital campus in Dickson City, Pennsylvania, prompting the evacuation of more than 70 patients. The blaze did not start inside the main hospital building, but the facility remained closed on Thursday as the damage was assessed.

Why it matters

Hospital fires can be extremely dangerous, putting vulnerable patients at risk. This incident highlights the importance of robust emergency preparedness and response plans to ensure the safety of patients and staff when such events occur.

The details

The fire started on the roof of an older medical office building and did not begin inside the attached main hospital building, officials said. More than 70 hospital patients were evacuated, most to other area hospitals. As of Thursday morning, five patients were listed in fair condition, three in good condition and one in critical condition, while the other four had been released.

• The fire broke out on Wednesday night.
• The hospital remained closed on Thursday as the damage was assessed.

What they’re saying