In response to the tragic Fall River fire that took the lives of 10 people at an assisted living facility this past July, the Chelsea Fire Department is proactively coordinating with Chelsea nursing homes and assisted living facilities to strengthen their fire safety and emergency preparedness to protect their vulnerable residents.
The Department has already met with leaders from the Chelsea Jewish Lifecare, which owns and operates the Leonard Florence Center for Living and The Estates on Admirals Hill. During the meetings, evacuation plans were reviewed and staff training opportunities were discussed.
“Resident and staff safety is our highest priority, “said Chelsea Fire Chief John Quatieri. “The tragic fire in Fall River affected all of us in the fire service, and our thoughts remain with the families and first responders affected by that loss. We’re hoping by meeting directly with facility administrators and staff, we can address specific concerns and ensure everyone is prepared to properly respond in an emergency.
“We are fortunate to have such a responsive, skilled and dedicated fire department in our community,” said Barry Berman, CEO of Chelsea Jewish Lifecare. “The Chelsea Fire Department does an amazing job protecting the residents of Chelsea and keeping them safe through their tireless efforts to maintain the most up-to-date fire safety protocols. We are eternally grateful for their support.”
In the coming weeks, the department will be meeting with additional facilities to review fire safety measures, evacuation plans, and emergency operations protocols. Next on the list is the Highland Park Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center on August 20.
These conversations are part of the department’s ongoing broader efforts to strengthen its collaboration with care providers and provide the community with critical fire prevention and safety practices. Late last year, the Fire Department launched a Fire Safety Education Program through which fire fighters offer tours of the Fire headquarters and courses for local groups, from kindergarten classes to restaurants and nonprofits.
“These meetings provide an opportunity for face-to-face discussions where staff can ask questions, raise concerns, and review information to ensure they are following best practices for protecting their residents,” added Quatieri.
To arrange a visit or tour, please contact the Fire Safety Education Program team by emailing Lieutenant Omar Frometa and Firefighter Bryan Bermudez at [email protected]. To learn more about the education program, visit https://www.chelseama.gov/news_detail_T2_R377.php