Burnaby Firefighters were on scene at Burnaby General Hospital after reports of a possible fire Sunday night. There was lots of smoke in the are and staff evacuated the building and rushed to the parking lot. Traffic was also disrupted for the areas of Smith, Kincaid, and Sunset.
The CEO of Burnaby Hospital Foundation Kristy James expressed her gratitude for the quick response of the firefighters via Twitter post.
Can’t thank @IAFF323 Burnaby Firefighters enough tonight! The fire @ Burnaby Hospital was in the building where our offices are. I was overwhelmed with the # of firefighters & trucks when I arrived! And to hear all the patients were safe & the fire out was a huge relief! 1/2
— Kristy James (@kristygilljames) November 16, 2020
We are always so appreciative at @BbyHospitalFdn to be able to partner with the firefighters to support the hospital-but to see them in action tonight was awe inspiring-they are true heroes in our community and I couldn’t be more grateful! 🙏🏻💕 #grateful #FirstResponders 2/2
— Kristy James (@kristygilljames) November 16, 2020
A statement from Fraser Health says the fire started in one wing and affected several other areas of the building.
The health authority says 18 patients have been transferred to other hospitals because of the air quality in some areas, although no one was hurt in the fire that started late Sunday.
The statement says the fire did not damage the ER and the temporary closure is to ensure patients and staff are safe due to air pollution.
The damage is being assessed and Fraser Health says those who need urgent care are asked to visit Edmonds Urgent and Primary Care Centre in Burnaby or other hospitals or care centres for help .
The authority didn't say what caused the fire.
Photo courtesy of link2life.ca
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