One person was taken to hospital for treatment Thursday morning after the V.I. Fire and Emergency Medical Services responded to a structure fire at an abandoned building in Estate Profit on St. Croix.
The agency said in a report that the fire that broke out sometime before 5 a.m. took 90 minutes to contain and completely destroyed the building, but no surrounding structures were affected.
“After confirming the building was abandoned, crews discovered an individual trapped in a nearby fence who appeared to be squatting. The person sustained minor injuries while attempting to escape and was transported to the hospital for treatment,” the report stated.
Road closures were implemented during the response, with assistance from the Virgin Islands Police Department, but have since been lifted, according to the report. The area has been cleared, though the building remains unsafe for the public, it said.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
The blaze comes 10 days after the ARTFarm on the South Shore of St. Croix, which grows organic produce for the island, suffered a devastating fire on March 30 that reportedly destroyed up to 90 percent of its operation. It is recovering and rebuilding with the help of volunteers.
The latest conflagration also comes as the V.I. Fire and Emergency Medical Services announced a territory-wide burn ban on Wednesday due to recent high winds.
The burn ban will remain in effect until further notice and applies to all open fires, including campfires, bonfires, trash, yard debris or brush burning, the agency said.
“Alternative methods for disposing of debris, such as chipping or composting, are encouraged. Additionally, VIFEMS urges residents to exercise caution while using outdoor grills or cooking equipment with open flames. Properly maintaining and monitoring such equipment, and keeping a fire extinguisher nearby, can significantly reduce the risk of accidental fires,” according to the release.
“VIFEMS is fully aware this ban comes into effect during the height of the camping season on St. Croix, we ask that campers take all the necessary precautions for a safe camping experience,” it added, referring to the Easter holiday tradition.
“VIFEMS will continue to monitor weather conditions and assess fire risks throughout the territory. The public will be notified once the burn ban is lifted. We appreciate all residents’ and visitors’ cooperation and understanding in supporting these precautionary measures to safeguard our communities,” the release stated.
