Knysna info office fire traced to electrical fault
After investigation, it’s now known that the fire that damaged the offices of Knysna & Partners at 40 Main Street on Tuesday night was caused by an electrical fault.
This has been confirmed by Knysna’s fire station commander, Wayne Sternsdorf, who said that the building’s internal doors were closed at the time of the fire – which contained the heat to the affected area, and helped to prevent the flames from spreading.
Although a number of computers were destroyed, the company’s server – which is housed in a separate room – was not affected.
Ypie Kingma, chairperson of Knysna & Partners (the town’s official destination management and marketing organisation) said that the office has a set of standard operating procedures, which include data back-up protocols, and the closing of the internal doors at the end of each business day.
“Knowing a little bit about the way they work, I’m not surprised that the team followed the correct procedures – but I’m very grateful that by doing so they ensured that the damage was minimised,” she said.
She thanked the fire department for their professional and efficient service, and also the members of the public who’ve come into the office to show their support for the staff.
The company’s CEO, Greg Vogt, said that all members of staff arrived for work at the normal time yesterday morning.
“Telkom restored our phone lines and the team was able to provide information to visitors throughout the day.
“Like Ypie, we want to thank the Emergency Services, as well as concerned members who’ve popped in to the office to wish us well.
“We really appreciate everyone’s amazing support,” he said.
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