HCMC sustains damage from fire in basement
Major disaster was averted Sunday evening when a fire broke out in a basement storage room below the long term care unit at Hillsboro Community Medical Center, 701 S. Main Street, Hillsboro.
According to Marion Regier, chief financial officer, HCMC, approximately 50 residents and staff were evacuated around 5:30 p.m. when the fire was discovered. By Sunday evening, all residents were able to return to their rooms.
"Personnel from Atmos Energy checked for carbon monoxide," said Regier, which gave the facility an "all clear" to re-enter the building.
The state fire marshal was on-site Monday and determined it was not arson. The exact cause was not known at press time.
Steve Garrett, Hillsboro City Administrator, said the fire was contained and extinguished within 30-45 minutes.
"The Hillsboro and Marion fire departments did an outstanding job," said Garrett. He also said thermal imaging equipment was extremely helpful.
"With the equipment, fire personnel were able to identify the source quickly," he said.
Smoke damage was confined to a kitchen and dining area on the main floor, which are not usable until clean up and repairs are made.
Regier said there were was no dollar estimate of damage and the building is insured. Repairs are being planned, said Regier.
