Breaking: Fire at major Perth hospital forces ICU evacuation

A fire broke out at Fiona Stanley Hospital's intensive care unit in Perth, forcing the evacuation of the ICU and leading to medical treatment for four individuals. The blaze, which ignited within a self-contained room, did not spread beyond its confines, though water damage and smoke were reported. The hospital announced that some services would be temporarily closed for remedial work.

Three staff members and one patient were undergoing clinical assessment, but all four were confirmed to be stable later on. In response, patient relocation, ambulance diversions, and the disruption of certain surgical and outpatient services were implemented. The Emergency Department remained operational, accepting patients with medical emergencies, while paediatric and adult patients were temporarily merged.

Visitors were advised to postpone visits until services were restored. By August 21, outpatient clinics and elective surgeries were set to resume as planned, with the Paediatric Emergency Department continuing to operate under ambulance bypass until the dedicated facility was safe. The cause of the fire, determined by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services, was electrical.