The Salem Fire & EMS Department responded to a reported fire on the third floor of the LewisGale Medical Center on Monday evening at approximately 6:59 p.m.

Firefighters discovered smoke and fire in a room on that floor, and hospital staff quickly evacuated the patient when the smoke was located. In all, 18 patients were evacuated to other parts of the hospital while the fire was contained and extinguished.

The first units arrived within five minutes of receiving the call and found a small fire located inside of a wall and quickly extinguished it. Damage to the building was limited, however, several pieces of medical equipment were damaged.

Approximately 31 personnel from the Salem Fire & EMS Department (Truck 1, Engine 2, Engine 3, Medic 801, Medic 802, Medic 803, Battalion 1 & Fire Medic 1) and the Roanoke Fire & EMS Department (Engine 4, Engine 13, Ladder 5, Ladder 7 & Battalion 1) responded to the call.

The Salem Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the fire and has not determined a cause at this time. In addition, there is no damage estimate.

• Submitted by Mike Stevens, City of Communications Director