The National Fire Authority (NFA) has advised the public and business owners to remain vigilant as the festive season nears. This alert follows a significant industrial fire that broke out early Friday at the Auto City Place in Raiwaqa, Suva.
NFA’s Chief Executive Officer Puamau Sowane stated that the Suva Fire Station responded to the call at 2:49 am to find a complex consisting of a restaurant, a kava store, and an automotive spare parts shop ablaze. Fire crews from the Valelevu Fire Station in Nasinu joined efforts to control the fire.
Thanks to their prompt action, firefighters were able to extinguish the flames within an hour, preventing further spread to nearby structures. Unfortunately, the building suffered 80 percent structural damage, and the total cost of the damages has yet to be assessed. Investigations are set to begin soon to determine the cause of the fire.
With the festive season coming up, Mr. Sowane stressed the importance of fire safety. He encouraged business owners to turn off all unused power outlets and machinery and to secure windows and doors to reduce fire risks.
“These are simple measures that anyone can take, but they can greatly lower the likelihood of unwanted fires and property loss,” he highlighted.