On Friday, April 3, at 7:45 a.m., Arcadia Fire Department responded to a report of smoke inside the structure at Arcadia Convalescent Hospital, 1601 S Baldwin Avenue, Arcadia. Units from Arcadia, Pasadena, and Los Angeles County Fire Departments arrived on scene and reported light smoke coming from inside the structure with an evacuation in progress. Staff and fire personnel safely evacuated 50 non-ambulatory patients from the hospital without incident or need for additional medical intervention.
Suppression personnel determined the source of smoke was from a malfunctioning HVAC unit, which they immediately disabled. A service technician responded to the scene for diagnosis and repair of the system.
Firefighters utilized electric blowers to remove smoke from the structure and monitored carbon monoxide levels. Within the hour, the smoke was evacuated and carbon monoxide levels were reduced to zero, allowing patients and staff to reoccupy the building.
No firefighters or civilian personnel were injured during this incident.
About the City of Arcadia: Nestled in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, Arcadia is an 11.38 square mile community with a population of just over 56,000. Located approximately 20 miles east of downtown Los Angeles, Arcadia is known for combining small-town charm with the conveniences and amenities of a mid-size city. Arcadia is a full-service charter city governed by a five-member City Council, elected at large. Recognized for exceptional education and recreation opportunities and beautiful neighborhoods, Arcadia is also defined as the “Community of Homes” and has twice been designated the “Best City in California in which to Raise Kids” by Business Week Magazine.
