Fire closes A&E (From Warrington Guardian)

Fire closes A&E

Following an incident involving the mains power supply to some parts of Warrington Hospital, the Accident and Emergency Department is currently closed to admissions.

Emergency generators are supplying basic power needs, but the hospital is urging all patients and relatives who do not need to attend the site today (Friday, February 11) to stay away until further notice.

Patient safety is in no way compromised by the incident. Those in need of urgent or emergency care are being diverted by ambulance to other local hospitals.

An alternative venue for non-urgent care and treatment for minor injuries is being established in Garven Place Health Centre in Warrington town centre.

Patients may walk-in or call 01925 650999. Patients are also reminded that Halton General Hospital's Minor Injuries Unit is also to them for non-urgent conditions such as sprains.

The incident began at approximately 11am this morning when smoke was seen emanating from a generator room on the site.

The fire service was called to the scene and officers are currently investigating the cause of the problem, which is affecting the main power supply provided through an underground duct.

Emergency generators are supplying Appleton Wing from where 40 surgical patients were transferred to other, unaffected parts of the hospital and have now been able safely to return to the wing.

Seven patients have also been transferred from the Intensive Care Unit and High Dependency Unit to theatres in other parts of the hospital where they are being appropriately cared for. Medical staff are currently assessing their needs to establish whether to transfer any patients to other Intensive Care Units.

Kathryn Holbourn, Director of Nursing and Service Development, said:

"The situation is well under control. Patient safety is not compromised in any way and the staff are coping magnificently, as is the fire service.

"We would urge those relatives and patients with non-urgent conditions not to attend the hospital at the current time. Further information updates will be provided throughout the day."

A helpline has been established by the hospital for inquiries for the relatives of patients on 01925 662866