A fire at the municipal nursing home in Pinto forced the evacuation of 28 elderly residents. All were unharmed and have been relocated to a shelter at the evangelical church 'Comunidad de Fe' for at least a month.
The 28 residents of the municipal nursing home Ernesto L. Pinto were evacuated this Sunday after a fire broke out in the building. Firefighters quickly managed to control the flames, preventing them from spreading to the rest of the facilities. All the elderly were taken to the Municipal Hospital for a medical evaluation and were subsequently housed in a space provided by the evangelical church 'Comunidad de Fe'.
Orderly evacuation with no injuries
The swift action of the nursing home staff and emergency teams was key to ensuring that the evacuation proceeded without incidents. None of the residents suffered injuries or serious health issues, municipal sources confirmed. Doctors at the 'Dr. Felipe Antonio Fossati' Municipal Hospital examined all the evacuees and confirmed that they were in good physical and emotional condition.
The operation mobilised dozens of people, including nurses, cooks, public service agents, and neighbours who volunteered to help. The coordination among all parties allowed the elderly to receive medical attention and food within hours.
One month in a temporary shelter
The residents will remain for at least one month in the Multipurpose Hall of the evangelical church 'Comunidad de Fe', located at streets 9 and 48. The space was provided by pastors Marta and Claudio D'Amico and meets the necessary conditions to accommodate the elderly during this period. Municipal authorities are now evaluating alternatives for their permanent relocation, as well as the necessary repairs to the nursing home building.
The Pinto City Council has assured that the well-being of the residents will be prioritised and that families will be kept informed at all times. The local community has shown solidarity, with many neighbours offering to help in any way needed.
A scare that could have been worse
The fire, which originated in an area of the building yet to be determined, could have had much more serious consequences if it had not been for the rapid intervention of the firefighters. The flames were controlled before they could spread, preventing a tragedy. Municipal technicians will inspect the property to assess the damage and determine the causes of the incident.
Meanwhile, the 28 elderly residents are safe and being cared for in the temporary shelter, where they have beds, food, and medical assistance. The expectation is that they will be able to return to the nursing home once the repairs are completed, although if that is not possible, a permanent alternative will be sought.

