Sprinkler malfunction causes Crystal River assisted living facility residents to be temporarily relocated

Citrus County Fire Rescue (CCFR)

Crystal River, Florida – At 10:01 am on Sunday, April 28, 2024, Citrus County Fire Rescue responded to The Gardens Assisted Living and Memory Care (formerly known as Crystal Gem Manor), located on W. Gem St. in Crystal River, due to a fire alarm activation.

Firefighters arrived to find that a malfunction in the fire sprinkler system had caused extensive water damage to an entire patient care wing. Emergency responders and staff members of the facility determined that the fire sprinkler system could not be repaired that same day, which necessitated the temporary relocation of all the facility's residents until the sprinkler system and other repairs are completed.

Thanks to the collaborative efforts of Citrus County Community Services, Citrus County Transit Services, staff members of The Gardens and the other facilities and families that opened their doors to the displaced residents, the relocation process was executed smoothly and efficiently.

Transit services provided three buses, the guidance of a supervisor, and three drivers who volunteered to drive the buses during their time off. Citrus County Fire Rescue provided each bus with a paramedic to monitor patients during transport.

Details of the residents' relocation:
   21 residents were relocated to Sugarmill Manor Assisted Living.
   7 residents were relocated to Brentwood Retirement Community.
   2 residents were relocated to Vitas Inpatient Hospice Unit of Citrus County.
   8 residents were relocated to the home of a family member.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved in the relocation efforts at The Gardens Assisted Living and Memory Care," said Craig Stevens, Citrus County Fire Chief. "The seamless coordination and swift action demonstrated by all parties involved ensured the safety and well-being of the residents during this challenging situation.”

“This was certainly an unfortunate situation," said Citrus County Administrator Steve Howard. "Three of our agencies – Fire Rescue, Community Services, and Transit Services – worked collaboratively and collectively with the staff of The Gardens, and the other facilities, to get our citizens to safety. It’s a great example of what can be accomplished when we all work together. On behalf of the County, thank you, to all, for your dedication and hard work.”