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Hospital Plunged into Cold: Heat Fails During Freezing Temps
9 Feb
Summary
- Boiler system flooded on Sunday night due to a broken valve.
- Dozens of patients were left without heat for hours in freezing weather.
- Seventy patients were transferred to other hospitals for care.
UMass Memorial Medical Center experienced a critical failure on Sunday night when a broken valve flooded the basement, disabling the boiler system. This resulted in a complete loss of heat for dozens of patients being treated at the facility during freezing outdoor temperatures.
The hospital initiated a 'Code Black' protocol, halting new ambulance arrivals. Between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m., with external temperatures around 12 degrees Fahrenheit and wind chills making it feel like -1, a decision was made to relocate 70 of the 93 patients.
Patient safety was prioritized throughout the transfer process, with families being notified of the new locations. The valve issue was reportedly resolved, and basement flooding addressed by Monday morning. However, inpatient and outpatient services, except for mammography, remained suspended on Monday.
