A family in Vunivau, Labasa, experienced a devastating loss when their home, valued at $200,000 and built over 45 years, was destroyed by fire last Friday night. Prasheel Naicker, 27, revealed that his father, grandmother, and uncle were at home during the incident, which occurred while he was attending a family gathering in Labasa Town.

The blaze reportedly started in the family’s prayer room and swiftly spread to the roof. Two passersby first spotted the flames and alerted the family. Naicker expressed his frustration over the delayed response from the National Fire Authority (NFA), believing that quicker action could have allowed them to save some belongings. Despite multiple phone calls and a visit to the fire station, assistance arrived too late to salvage anything from their home.

This fire marks the second significant house fire in the Northern Division within a two-week period, following another incident on New Year’s Day in Waiqele, Labasa, where another family’s home was completely consumed while they were away; that fire caused an estimated $250,000 in damages.

Acting Divisional Police Commander North, Superintendent Eroni Soqosoqo, confirmed that investigations into both fires are currently underway. These tragic occurrences have prompted discussions about the urgent need for improved fire safety measures and better emergency response capabilities in rural areas, where resources may be limited.

While the losses endured by the affected families are profound, there is hope that these tragedies will lead to meaningful changes in fire safety protocols and community preparedness. The resilience shown by the Naicker family and their community highlights the importance of vigilance and proactive measures in preventing future calamities. Collectively, there seems to be a commitment emerging within the community to foster a safer living environment for everyone, reinforcing the idea that adversity can spark significant improvements and positive change.