A fire broke out Sunday evening in a community center operated by the Pfalzklinikum in Dahn, prompting a large emergency response. The fire, which began around 8 p.m., affected a facility housing 53 individuals with mental health challenges and their caregivers.
Emergency Response and Evacuation
According to police reports, many of those present were able to evacuate the building independently. However, 23 individuals from the Betreuen-Fördern-Wohnen community psychiatric facility required evacuation assistance from emergency personnel. Three people experienced minor smoke inhalation and were taken to a hospital as a precaution.
Approximately 180 emergency responders, including firefighters – including the Pfalzklinikum’s own fire department – paramedics, and police officers, were dispatched to the scene. Some of those evacuated were privately accommodated, while others were temporarily housed in regional emergency shelters.
Pfalzklinikum Response and Investigation
The Pfalzklinikum is currently arranging alternative accommodations for those displaced at its locations in Rodalben and Klingenmünster. The hospital reports that those admitted to the hospital are, “according to current knowledge, doing well under the circumstances.”
Eveline Brill, Regional Director of Southwest Palatinate for Community Psychiatry, stated, “We are extremely upset that this fire occurred. Thanks to the quick and prudent actions of our employees and the rapid response of the fire department, the situation was quickly brought under control.” Pfalzklinikum officials expressed relief that there were no serious injuries, but regret that the incident occurred in a building leased by the clinic and that some clients required medical attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the fire?
The cause of the fire is currently unknown. The Pirmasens Criminal Investigation Department has taken over the investigation.
How many people were affected by the fire?
53 people with mental health challenges and their caregivers were in the building when the fire broke out. 23 individuals required evacuation assistance, and three were treated for minor smoke inhalation.
Where are the evacuated individuals being housed?
Some of the evacuated individuals were privately accommodated, while others were temporarily housed in regional emergency shelters. The Pfalzklinikum is arranging alternative accommodations at its locations in Rodalben and Klingenmünster.
As investigations continue, it remains to be seen what long-term solutions will be needed to support those displaced by the fire and ensure the continued provision of care.
