SAMUT SAKHON, Thailand – A fire at Ban Phaeo Hospital in Samut Sakhon Province was fully contained on September 13, with no fatalities or serious injuries reported. The blaze began at about 6 p.m. in the physical therapy department on the first floor of the hospital’s Chaloem Phra Kiat Building, prompting the rapid evacuation of people from the affected area.
Deputy Interior Minister Jeseth Thaiseth arrived at the hospital at about 7 p.m. to oversee the response. Firefighters and other emergency teams worked with hospital staff to contain the blaze and safely evacuate patients and others. Minor effects from smoke inhalation were reported, while crews continued ventilating the building and removing residual smoke.
Jeseth instructed the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation to assess risks, support emergency operations, and maintain surveillance for any recurrence. The Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning will inspect the building’s structural integrity and stability before the affected areas are cleared for use, while the Pollution Control Department will test indoor air quality to ensure conditions are safe for patients, staff, and the public.
Forensic officers are scheduled to examine the site and collect evidence to determine the cause of the fire. Authorities will continue monitoring the hospital until the building’s structural condition, indoor air quality, and other safety concerns have been fully assessed before normal use of the affected areas resumes. (NNT)
