A family in Vunivau, Labasa, faced a devastating loss last Friday night when their home, valued at approximately $200,000 and built over 45 years, was destroyed by fire. Prasheel Naicker, 27, shared that at the time of the incident, his father, grandmother, and uncle were inside the house while he was attending a gathering in Labasa Town.
The fire is believed to have originated in the family’s prayer room before quickly spreading to the roof. Fortunately, two passersby noticed the flames and alerted the family, prompting Naicker to contact the National Fire Authority (NFA) for assistance. Despite his multiple calls and a personal visit to the local fire station, the NFA’s response was delayed, resulting in a total loss of the family home and belongings.
This incident marks the second house fire in the Northern Division within a two-week period, following a similar fire on New Year’s Day in Waiqele, where another family lost their home while they were away. That fire is estimated to have caused around $250,000 in damages and has raised serious concerns regarding fire safety measures and emergency response capabilities in rural areas.
Superintendent Eroni Soqosoqo, the Acting Divisional Police Commander for North, confirmed that investigations are ongoing regarding both incidents. The tragedies have sparked conversations about the need for better fire safety regulations and improved emergency response protocols in vulnerable communities where resources are often limited.
While these events have profoundly affected the families involved, there is a collective hope that they will lead to meaningful changes in fire safety practices and community preparedness. The resilience shown by the affected families and the support from the community underscore the importance of vigilance in preventing such tragedies in the future. Enhanced safety protocols and community cooperation can foster a safer living environment for all residents, turning these unfortunate experiences into catalysts for positive change.
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