SUDBURY — Chief John M. Whalen reports that the Sudbury Fire Department and its mutual aid partners have completed the evacuation of dozens of residents from a skilled nursing facility that began earlier this afternoon.
All 78 residents of Bear Mountain at Sudbury have been transported safely to new locations after the roof and ceiling at the facility suffered significant damage during a rainstorm. Three patients who had been in critical condition prior to the incident were transported to area hospitals, while one resident of the facility left with a family member.
The remaining 74 residents were transported via ambulance, van and bus to alternative Bear Mountain facilities in Andover and Reading. The evacuation was completed at 8:28 p.m.
At about 1:13 p.m., Sudbury Fire was dispatched to Bear Mountain at Sudbury, 136 Boston Post Road, on a box alarm. Upon arrival, first responders discovered a leaking roof which caused significant flooding and damage to multiple floors and key facilities inside the building.
At about 2 p.m., the building was deemed uninhabitable and an evacuation process was initiated.
The Sudbury Fire Department was assisted in this operation by local agencies, including the Sudbury Police and Health Departments, the Mass Fire District 2 Task Force D, Fire District 6D Ambulance Task Force, District 14 Strike Team, and mutual aid from numerous surrounding communities. The responding agencies collaborated to bring assets to bear to execute today’s operation, including several ambulances, buses from area assisted living facilities, regional transit vehicles and more.
“This was an orderly and safe evacuation that was made possible by the extensive preparation, training and experience of our first responders and mutual aid partners,” Chief Whalen said. “I want to thank all of the agencies and organizations that stepped up to assist our residents in their time of need, and we’re grateful that everyone was able to be relocated safely.”
Bear Mountain at Sudbury provides short- and long-term rehabilitation services, physical and occupational therapy, and respite care.
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