Emergency services responded to a 'major incident' at a care home in Dorset this morning, with three people feared dead and two taken to hospital following a suspected gas leak. The incident, which occurred at Gainsborough Care Home in Ullwell Road, Swanage, has prompted a significant emergency response, with numerous ambulances, fire engines, and police units rushing to the scene.
Witnesses described seeing staff members outside the building hugging each other and crying, highlighting the gravity of the situation. Some emergency crew were also seen wearing hazmat suits, suggesting potential hazardous conditions. The gas company, SGN, is also on the scene, alongside a Hazardous Area Response Team.
One resident, who did not want to give his name, said, "They evacuated the care home, Gainsborough Care Home. They have taken all the patients out but the emergency services are still on the scene." He added that he saw some residents being evacuated in wheelchairs. The resident estimated that emergency services arrived around 7 am on Wednesday and started to see people being moved out at around 8:30 am. He believed there were two fire engines, three to four police cars, and around eight or nine ambulances at the scene, where the road remains closed.
Local Conservative councillor Gary Suttle confirmed the deaths and the suspected cause to LBC: “I have been told by (Dorchester) social services there was a critical incident at the home. Three people are confirmed as dead and two people have been taken to hospital. There is a suspicion that this could be attributable to carbon monoxide but it has not been proven.”
The 48-bedroom care home is understood to be at the centre of the emergency effort. The facility, run by Agincare, cares for elderly residents, some of whom have dementia.
A South Western Ambulance Service spokesperson said they were called at 5.20 am to an incident in Swanage, sending a hazard response team, 10 double-crewed ambulances, and "a significant number of additional resources." "Two patients were conveyed by land ambulance to Poole Hospital,” they added.
A Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said they were called to the scene to assist ambulance crews at 7.47 am. Group manager Neil Tidball said: “We currently have four fire crews on scene from Swanage, Wareham, Westbourne, Poole, a support vehicle from Dorchester, along with two crews from Winchester (Hampshire and IoW FRS). Firefighters are working with Dorset Police, South West Ambulance Service and other partners to resolve this incident.”
Dorset Police said they could not yet confirm any details of the incident. All of the residents were evacuated to a nearby church hall. The family of one resident was called by the company on Wednesday morning and told that everyone was “fine.”
The incident has sparked concern and sadness in the local community, with residents expressing their shock and hope for the safety of those involved. The investigation is ongoing, and further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
The Aftermath of Tragedy: A Community Reeling
The tragic incident at Gainsborough Care Home has sent shockwaves through the Swanage community, leaving residents reeling from the unexpected loss of life and the uncertainty surrounding the events that unfolded. As emergency services continue to investigate the suspected gas leak, residents are left to grapple with the impact of this tragedy on their community. The care home, which had been a familiar presence in the area, has now become a symbol of grief and concern.
A Call for Support: Reaching Out to Those Affected
In the wake of this devastating incident, support networks are being activated to provide comfort and assistance to the families of the deceased, the injured, and the residents who were evacuated. Local authorities and community organizations are coordinating efforts to offer counseling services, financial aid, and other forms of support. The community is rallying together, demonstrating compassion and resilience in the face of tragedy.
Lessons Learned: Ensuring Safety in Care Homes
The incident at Gainsborough Care Home highlights the importance of robust safety protocols and regular maintenance in care homes to prevent such tragedies from occurring. While the exact cause of the suspected gas leak is still under investigation, the incident underscores the need for heightened vigilance and proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable residents. As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial for care home operators and regulatory bodies to examine best practices and identify potential areas for improvement in safeguarding residents and preventing future incidents.
The incident at Gainsborough Care Home is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community support in times of crisis. As the investigation continues, the community will undoubtedly come together to offer support, healing, and a sense of unity during this difficult time.
