In response to the recent tragic fire at Gabriel House in Fall River, Massachusetts, the state announced new m
easures to enhance the safety of residents living in the state’s 273 assisted living residences (ALRs).
“What happened in Fall River is a horrible tragedy. Our hearts are with the families who lost loved ones and to the fir
st responders who saved so many others,” said Governor Maura Healey. “This is a moment to make sure that every
assisted living residence is prepared to respond to emergencies and to protect the safety of their residents.”
The Gabriel House fire erupted on the evening of Sunday July 13. About 50 firefighters responded and were able to put
out the fire by Monday morning and get inside and rescue numerous occupants. Ten residents died and at least 30 peopl
e were hurt as thick smoke and flames trapped residents inside. Many of those rescued were taken to hospitals. Five firefighters suffered injuries.
While the fire is still under investigation, officials have indicated that smoking or oxygen machine issues may have sparked the deadly blaze.
One resident of Gabriel House has filed a lawsuit alleging the facility w
as not properly managed, staffed or maintained. The injury law firm Morgan & Morgan said it has been retained by a family of someone who died in the fire.
Smoking or Oxygen Machine Eyed as Possible Cause of Deadly Fire at Assisted Living Home
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Assisted living facilities have been looked at as essentially a residential option, offering older adults living quarters and some assistance but not as much help as nursing homes. Before the blaze, Gabriel H
ouse staff had raised concerns about conditions including staffing and low wages. Many of Gabriel House residents are low income and served by Medicaid. The building was formerly a motel.
Regulation is up to states as there are no federal regulations governing assisted living. Some advocates maintain that regulations have not kept up as more assisted living facilities have opened and the population they serve has changed to include seniors with increased needs.
“The regulations are minimal,” Liane Zeitz told The Associated Press. Zeitz is an attorney and a member of the state Assisted Living Residences Commission, a body created by lawmakers last year to make recommendations about the sector.
On July 21, the Executive Office of Aging & Independence (AGE), the state agency tasked with ensuring ALRs are in compliance with state regulations, launched a statewide fire and life safety initiative to ensure all ALRs are prepared to protect residents during emergencies. These proactive measures build on existing work.