A fire that destroyed the Orange Park Commercial Centre, the building commonly known for housing Computer World, in Bois d’Orange, on Friday night, has been linked to several operational challenges faced by firefighters, including restricted building access and the presence of hazardous materials, according to the Saint Lucia Fire Service (SLFS).
The SLFS says it received the high-priority distress call at 8:54 p.m. on March 6, following which units from the Gros Islet and Babonneau Fire Stations, the George Charles Fire Hall, and Fire Service Headquarters were immediately dispatched to the scene.
“Firefighting efforts were complicated by restricted access to the building and the presence of hazardous materials, including chemical storage and energy storage equipment and batteries,” the SLFS stated. “Due to the rapid spread of the fire, crews initiated a multi-point attack to bring the blaze under control.”
The entire building sustained extensive damage.
Authorities said the fire was contained as of Saturday morning; however, firefighters remain on the scene tending to ‘persistent reignitions’ and will remain until the structure has fully cooled.
Further details regarding the exact cause of the fire have not yet been provided.
However, the SLFS issued a cautionary warning regarding the use of new technologies, specifically lithium-ion cells.
“The potential for continuous reignition, the limited effects of extinguishing agents and the infiltration of these uses have compounded the risks associated with firefighting efforts,” it said. “We continue to ask the public to remain knowledgeable about the use and potential risks associated with these new technologies.”
Fire authorities also expressed gratitude to the Water and Sewerage Company (WASCO), LUCELEC, and members of the general public for their cooperation.
