Praise for emergency response to Southampton General fire

Praise for emergency response to Southampton General fire

Earlier today, Southampton General Hospital experienced a fire that caused significant disruption for both patients and staff. More than 200 patients were evacuated from affected wards as a precautionary measure. Among those displaced was Dean Wedge’s 86-year-old mother, who had recently undergone a medical procedure. Wedge commended the hospital team for their professionalism throughout the emergency.

Despite the urgency of the situation, the fire was swiftly brought under control without any injuries reported. At its peak, over 110 firefighters attended the scene to contain the blaze, working alongside medical personnel to ensure patient safety. Access to the hospital’s emergency department was limited to individuals with life-threatening or limb-threatening conditions to manage the situation effectively.

Describing the evacuation, Dean Wedge highlighted the challenges faced in moving vulnerable patients quickly and safely. His mother, who has limited mobility, required assistance during the relocation. Wedge remarked, “I think it was just a case of trying to get everybody out as quickly as possible and away from any danger. Everybody was moved extremely quickly and obviously professionally.” He painted a vivid picture of the hospital corridors filled with beds as staff scrambled to accommodate the influx.

Following the incident, chief medical officer Paul Grundy explained that outpatient and inpatient services would be significantly reduced in the days ahead due to damage sustained in the fire. All appointments scheduled for Sunday were cancelled, and patients are advised to await direct communication from the hospital. Local MPs also expressed their gratitude to the emergency responders. Southampton Test MP Satvir Kaur stated, “Huge thanks to our incredible emergency services for containing the situation. You are all incredible.” Meanwhile, Eastleigh MP Liz Jarvis echoed appreciation for the swift and effective response, noting that no injuries occurred and all patients were safely relocated

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More