Emergency evacuation at hospital in Harghita: 20 patients safe after fire

A safety incident occurred on Saturday evening at the Psychiatric Hospital in Tulgheș, Harghita County, where approximately 20 patients were preventively evacuated following a fire.

The emergency was swiftly managed by medical staff, who proceeded to evacuate all patients from the hospital unit as a precautionary measure. The response teams, comprising two fire crews and a SMURD ambulance, immediately attended the scene, supported by local volunteer fire services.

Upon the arrival of the response teams, the fire had already been extinguished by hospital staff, demonstrating a prompt and effective response to the crisis.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the fire was most likely caused by an electrical short circuit in a light fitting, a technical fault that highlights the importance of maintaining proper upkeep of electrical installations in medical facilities.

The incident underscores the relevance of safety protocols in healthcare institutions, particularly those housing vulnerable patients, such as those with psychiatric conditions, who require special attention during emergency situations.