Patients evacuated after fire at National District Hospital

The Free State Department of Health has confirmed that a fire broke out at the National District Hospital in Bloemfontein.

According to the department’s spokesperson, Mondli Mvambi, the cause of yesterday’s fire is still unknown. Mvambi confirmed that the fire originated outside the pPaediatric ward, set trees alight, and spread to the first and second floor of the hospital.

“This led to smoke spreading throughout the hospital. The Hospital Disaster Plan was swiftly activated while patients and staff were evacuated,” Mvambi mentioned.

He added that the Mangaung Metro Fire and Rescue Services, with various EMS services, were contacted and responded swiftly to the hospital’s aid, safely evacuating patients.

“There were 83 patients in the wards and 23 were transferred to Botshabelo District Hospital, the remaining 50 were temporarily moved to Gateway Clinic from where they are being taken to Universitas Academic Hospital, Pelonomi Tertiary Hospital and MUCPP [ Mangaung-University of the Orange Free State Community Partnership Programme Clinic], ” Mvambi added.

Mvambi expressed that the patients are prioritised and are being treated.

The Free State Premier, MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae, yesterday arrived at the scene, accompanied by her husband, Lawrence Mathae, who is the speaker of the Mangaung Metro Municipality.

They were joined by the Free State MEC for Health, Monyatso Mahlatsi, and the MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture and Recreation, Ntombizanele Sifuba.

The premier and MEC’s expressed their gratitude to everyone who ensured that work was done co-operatively, as well as those who ensured the safety and care of patients.