On January 7, a malfunction in the fire suppression system at Stuart Lake Hospital caused a flood, just a week before the planned move to the new Fort St. James Hospital. Despite water spreading throughout much of the building, no patients were displaced, thanks to the quick actions of the Fort St. James Volunteer Fire Department, BC Ambulance, hospital staff, and patient families. Patients were promptly relocated to dry areas within the hospital, ensuring their safety and comfort.
Emergency responders, including the fire department and ambulance crew, acted swiftly to resolve the issue and stayed to assist with cleanup. The community rallied together, with off-duty hospital staff and family members joining the effort to mop up water and prepare the hospital for continued operations. While the emergency department faced a temporary disruption, services resumed the next day, thanks to the fast response.
This impressive display of teamwork allowed the hospital to remain operational and ensured the move to the new facility on January 14 will proceed on schedule. The incident highlighted the strength and unity of the Fort St. James community and reinforced the urgent need for the new hospital, which is set to improve care for the region.
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