WHITING – Nearly 60 residents were relocated early February 3 after cold-weather damage compromised safety systems at Whiting Gardens Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, prompting the evacuation of part of the facility, authorities said.
Police and emergency responders were called to the nursing center on Hilltop Road around 2:30 a.m. after reports of water leaking from the ceiling and damage to the building’s fire suppression system. Officials determined the issues were likely related to freezing temperatures.
Responders from the Manchester Township Police Department were joined by firefighters, emergency management officials and inspectors to assess the situation. Following inspections by building and fire officials, authorities ordered the evacuation of the south wing after electrical systems were shut down and the fire suppression system was found to be inoperable.
A coordinated relocation plan was quickly put into place. A total of 59 residents were moved for safety reasons. Forty-six patients were transferred to affiliated facilities, including Shore Gardens Rehabilitation and Nursing in Toms River and Trenton Gardens Rehabilitation and Nursing in Trenton. Thirteen others were relocated to unaffected wings within Whiting Gardens.
Multiple municipal, county and state agencies assisted in the response, including police, fire and emergency medical services, the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, the county and state fire marshal’s offices, the New Jersey Department of Health, and the American Red Cross. Several private contractors and facility representatives also assisted with remediation and support services.
Authorities said the south wing will remain closed until repairs are completed and the area is approved for reoccupancy by township fire and building officials. Questions regarding patient care and relocation are being handled directly by Whiting Gardens officials.
Manchester Township police thanked all responding agencies for their swift and coordinated efforts to protect residents and staff during the incident.
