The National Fire Authority (NFA) of Fiji is proactively preparing for the challenges that urban densification will bring in the upcoming years. In collaboration with the Queensland Fire Department, the NFA has initiated a comprehensive training program focusing on urban search and rescue as well as swift water rescue techniques. NFA CEO Puamau Sowane emphasized that as Fiji’s urban landscape evolves with taller buildings, it’s crucial for emergency responders to acquire the necessary skills and tools to tackle these new challenges effectively.
“This is a rare and valuable opportunity to build the skills that can save lives,” Sowane stated, highlighting that the training is not just for individual benefit but for the safety of communities throughout the Pacific region. In addition to NFA officers, participants from Samoa are also involved in the training, thereby strengthening regional cooperation in emergency response efforts.
This initiative aligns well with previous NFA efforts, such as the establishment of a Paramedics Ambulance Department aimed at enhancing medical emergency response capabilities and international training agreements with agencies in Taiwan, which have focused on providing specialized techniques for firefighting and rescue operations. The NFA is also making substantial investments in improving infrastructure for fire safety, including the construction of new fire stations and upgrading existing facilities.
Through these combined efforts, Fiji is taking significant steps towards bolstering its emergency response capabilities and ensuring the well-being of its citizens. With continuous international collaboration and local advancements, there is hope for a future with improved safety, preparedness, and resilience in the face of emergencies.
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