Coronavirus covid 19: Auckland managed isolation hotel evacuated after fire alarm is triggered

A managed isolation hotel in Auckland has been evacuated tonight after a fire alarm sounded.

A spokeswoman for Managed Isolation and Quarantine (MIQ) said the alarm went off around 6.15pm at the Grand Mercure on Customs St.

“Fire and Emergency NZ responded, those inside the building were evacuated safely according to fire evacuation processes. The cause of the fire alarm is still under investigation.

“Emergency evacuation and preservation of life must always be the priority in such situations. The 207 returnees were evacuated to the designated assembly point under the guidance of the on-site coordinator.”

The spokeswoman said the safety of staff and returnees was the top priority to “ensure the safety of our community.”

She said that all MIQ facilities operate in a Level 4 environment. In evacuation situations where guests must leave the strict infection prevention controls, developed by the Ministry of Health, they are followed to manage the risks of spread of Covid-19.

“These protocols include the use of PPE [personal protective equipment] and masks and rules of physical distancing “.

Those in isolation began returning to their rooms around 6:50 p.m. when the facility was declared safe.