Healey announces new safety measures for assisted living facilities after Fall River fire

FALL RIVER, Mass. (WLNE) — Gov. Maura Healey said that she was implementing “immediate steps to enhance the safety of residents living in Assisted Living Residences” after the deadly fire at Gabriel House in Fall River.

Healey said that the Executive Office of Aging and Independence will launch a statewide “Fire and Life Safety Initiative” targeting the state’s 272 assisted living facilities to assure they are prepared to protect residents during an emergency.

“All ALRs must issue a letter to residents and families within five business days outlining fire safety protocols, evacuation procedures and key points of contact for questions or concerns,” an announcement from the governor’s office said.

A fire safety survey will also be performed at each facility to check “compliance with fire safety requirements such as sprinkler systems, fire drills, evacuation protocols and maintenance of fire-rated doors and walls.”

The full announcement from the governor can be found here.