Investigations are continuing into the cause of a fire that broke out at Kwong Tiy Plaza along Mark Street in Suva this morning.
The fire, which was located in the building's Archives Room, was successfully extinguished by firefighters at 9.52am.
The National Fire Authority says its National Command Centre received an alert through the Automatic Fire Extinguishing System at 8.01am, reporting a fire alarm activation at the premises.
Fire crews from Suva Fire Station immediately responded, with the first fire appliance arriving at the scene at 8.05am.
NFA says upon investigation, firefighters identified the fire in the Archives Room and immediately began firefighting operations.
The NFA says crews used the water supply from their appliance, with additional support from another NFA appliance and a nearby fire hydrant.
NFA Chief Executive Officer Puamau Sowane says the incident highlights how quickly fires can escalate, particularly in commercial buildings where offices, storage areas and important records are kept.
Sowane says although firefighters responded promptly and brought the fire under control, the incident could have had far more serious consequences, putting lives at risk, threatening neighbouring businesses and causing significant damage to property and important records.
He is urging businesses, commercial property owners and building occupants to remain vigilant and strengthen their fire safety measures.
The NFA is reminding businesses to ensure fire detection and suppression systems are regularly inspected and maintained, electrical systems are safe, and storage areas are kept clear of combustible materials.
They are also urging building occupants to keep emergency exits accessible, conduct regular fire drills and ensure appropriate firefighting equipment is available and serviced.
The Authority is further reminding the public never to ignore fire alarms, even when there are no visible signs of smoke or flames.
Anyone who suspects a fire should report it immediately by calling 910.
