Taunton Fire Department to perform outreach to assisted living facilities after Fall River fire

TAUNTON, Mass. (WLNE) — Taunton Mayor Shaunna O’Connell, Fire Chief Steven Lavigne, and Taunton Emergency Management Agency Director Todd Castro said that the city’s fire department will perform outreach to the city’s assisted living facilities and nursing homes after the deadly fire in a Fall River facility.

The outreach will include a review of each facility’s emergency preparedness protocols, as well as offering guidance and support to meet the city’s fire standards.

“The Taunton Fire Department conducts annual inspections at long-term facilities and quarterly inspections of all nursing homes,” Chief Lavigne said. “Additionally, the TFD routinely assists with fire drills, reviews emergency preparedness plans, and coordinates table-top exercises to prepare for large-scale emergencies. These facilities are required to have up-to-date fire alarm and sprinkler systems, unobstructed exits, and clearly documented emergency plans. Our role is to enforce these standards while also being a resource for training, prevention, and education.”