MOUNT Gambier emergency services were called to a Commercial Street West business yesterday afternoon following reports of a toilet on fire.
At 1.38pm, the Mount Gambier Metropolitan Fire Service (MFS) was alerted to the structure fire at a industrial supply company, with two fire trucks and nine firefighters deployed to the scene.
MFS station officer Adrian Puust said a ceiling fan was the cause of the incident.
“A ceiling fan in a toilet and amenities block within an industrial building caught fire,” he said.
“The fan had overheated and caught fire in the ceiling area before falling into the toilet area.
“The fire caused approximately $1000 in damage.”
Mr Puust praised the business’ quick thinking and appropriate response to the fire.
“The business did all the right things when it happened,” he said.
“They realised a circuit breaker had tripped when lights in part of the building had gone out and noticed the smoke immediately.
“Triple 0 was called straight away and the building was evacuated of staff and customers.”
Once on the scene, the fire was controlled in about two minutes, with four firefighters in breathing apparatus clearing the building of any further spread.
The station officer urged all businesses and individuals to check electrical equipment left running.
“Anything that is running for an extended period of time needs to be regularly checked for any faults,” Mr Puust said.
“People should listen for sounds or smells coming out of electrical equipment and ensure it is serviced and up to standard.”
