Fire investigators believe a blaze that damaged a workshop in the centre of Bridport on Sunday afternoon was accidental.
Volunteer crews from Scottsdale and Bridport were called to a structure fire on Henry Street in the north-east town around 3:30pm.
The Tasmania Fire Service (TFS) said it received a large number of Triple Zero (000) calls because of the property’s central location in the township.
Firefighters found a large fire in a workshop at the rear of the property, with members of the public already helping.
Crews wearing breathing apparatus went inside the building and quickly brought the blaze under control.
Two occupants of the property were treated by paramedics for smoke inhalation and a member of the public was treated for minor burns.
“The swift actions of local volunteer firefighters were instrumental in bringing the fire under control and minimising further damage and their efforts are to be commended,” TFS north-east station officer and fire investigator Roger Brown said.
“I’d also like to acknowledge the efforts of nearby community members who provided early assistance.”
Brown said incidents like this had “a significant impact on small communities” and were a reminder to call Triple Zero (000) as early as possible in an emergency.
He said members of the public should put their own safety first and wait for trained firefighters and emergency services to arrive when possible.
Fire investigators stayed at the scene into the evening to examine the origin and cause of the fire.
“While investigations are continuing, preliminary findings indicate the fire was accidental and there are no suspicious circumstances,” Brown said.
