The Fall River Fire Department has released a detailed report on the deadly fire earlier this year at an assisted-living facility that claimed the lives of 10 residents. The incident, the deadliest in the state in more than 40 years, has highlighted gaps in regulations governing assisted-living facilities serving disabled and low-income residents.
As per NBC Boston, the 26-page report on the Gabriel House fire determined that the blaze was likely caused by either smoking or an electrical malfunction involving an oxygen machine, based on findings from the state fire marshal. The report also noted several structural challenges, including the absence of hallway fire doors or smoke barriers and the use of plywood around window air-conditioning units, which hindered rescue efforts. The building had only one elevator, complicating evacuation, and some residents had to be rescued through small bathroom windows.
Fall River Fire Chief Jeffrey P. Bacon praised the coordinated response of first responders and called for updates to state fire codes. He recommended that assisted-living facilities be held to similar fire safety standards as nursing homes, which have been required to install sprinkler systems since 2006 following fatal fires in other states, according to WCVB.
The report further recommended increasing fire department staffing, improving communication and training, and enhancing equipment to better respond to complex emergencies. It also urged legislative action to strengthen fire safety measures in assisted-living facilities to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
