Assisted living
Fire that killed two at Mississippi assisted living center was started by smoking materials, officials say
The state fire marshal said the October 21 fire in Clinton started outside near an entrance and spread quickly because a mattress and other items were stored there. Two residents died.
Key facts
- Officials said smoking materials started a fatal fire at a Mississippi assisted living center.
- Items stored near an entrance helped it spread.
What happened
The Mississippi State Fire Marshal's Office said the October 21 fire at Brookdale Senior Living in Clinton most likely started from improperly discarded smoking materials, WLBT reported on October 27. The fire began outside near the maintenance office entrance and spread inside to a residential area. Officials said it grew quickly because combustible items, including a mattress, box springs and household goods, were stored at the entrance.
Two residents died: Sandra Laird, 81, and Harris Anthony, 82, both of Vicksburg. Officials said smoke alarms were present and working, the building had a fire suppression system, and the alarm company notified authorities early. Brookdale said it is cooperating with investigators. State Fire Marshal Mike Chaney urged care facilities to keep entrances clear and to set safe places for smoking.
What it means for families
Fire safety in senior housing depends on daily habits as well as equipment. Families can ask simple questions on any tour.
For example: a family touring an assisted living community can ask where residents and staff are allowed to smoke and look at whether hallways and doorways are clear of stored items.
Ask how staff help residents who use wheelchairs or walkers get out during an alarm.
What this means in New York: you can ask any adult care facility or assisted living residence for its most recent state inspection results and its fire drill schedule.
What to do this week
- Ask where smoking is allowed and how it is supervised.
- Check that exits and hallways are clear during a tour.
- Ask about sprinklers, fire drills and the evacuation plan.
Sources
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