Local Coles suffers $100,000 in damages after unidentified suspects burned this item

When we think of toilet paper, we typically consider it a mundane yet essential household item.

Rarely do we associate it with danger or destruction.

However, a recent incident at Coles highlighted that even the most innocuous of items may become hazardous under certain conditions.


A Coles store at The High Wycombe Shopping Village experienced a fiery emergency that resulted in a staggering $100,000 in damages.

The store was plunged into chaos at around 4 pm, Saturday, as toilet paper rolls stored on a shelf were deliberately set ablaze.

The suspicious act quickly escalated as the flames spread and produced thick smoke, which triggered the store's fire sprinkler system.


compressed-toilet paper.jpeg
A batch of toilet paper caused a widespread fire at a local Coles. Image Credit: Pexels/Vlada Karpovich


In an instant, the situation turned from a small fire to a store-wide disaster.

The sprinklers added to the damage by flooding the store.

Staff and customers were evacuated safely, and workers used extinguishers to manage the flames.

However, the damage was done—the fire, smoke, and water left behind a scene of destruction.


The incident's aftermath was a sobering reminder of the importance of fire safety.

All perishable stocks got damaged by smoke or water, and the cleanup and repair costs added up to an estimated $100,000.

Arson squad officers started appealing for information from anyone who was in the store between 4 pm and 4:15 pm on that specific Saturday.

Coles has been fully cooperating with the investigation, and the authorities were determined to find those responsible.

Crime Stoppers also announced that rewards of up to $25,000 are available for information that could lead to identifying the suspect behind the fire.


This incident is a stark reminder of the potential risks lurking in everyday environments.

It's crucial to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour, especially in public spaces.

The safety of customers and staff is paramount, and it's everyone's responsibility to contribute to a secure community.

It's also an opportunity to review your own home's fire safety measures.

Do you have a working smoke alarm, a fire extinguisher, and an evacuation plan?

These are essential components of home safety that should not be overlooked.
Key Takeaways

  • A Coles supermarket in Perth has incurred substantial damages after toilet paper was set alight.
  • The incident resulted in an estimated $100,000 in damages and repair costs.
  • Customers and staff were evacuated safely, and despite efforts to control the fire, smoke and water damage affected the store's stocks.
  • The arson squad started looking for information regarding the event, and Coles has been cooperating with the investigation.
Have you ever encountered a similar situation at your local supermarket or shopping centre? How do you ensure your home is protected against potential fire hazards? Share your experiences and insights with us in the comments below.
 
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Up go the prices!!! $100,000 is a drop in the ocean to Coles. Their insurance premiums will skyrocket though
 
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They will probably be insured with Westfarmers Insurance Company.
Coles demerged with Wesfarmers on 28 November 2018.

As Auto and General has entered into a 10-year contract to be the underwriter for Coles car, home and landlord insurance this year, one might say that they are Coles insurer.

As finance is one of the subjects of least interest to me, I don't really have a clue!
 
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At least this fire was stopped quickly, without losing the building. Unlike the 2 x 16 year olds who thought it was a great joke and destroyed multiple businesses in Stirling 12 months ago. Still to go to trial but I bet the little darlings get off with a warning or community service. The small traders who were in the main complex are still trying to get back on thier feet. the only good thing was no-one lost their life.
 

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