The National Fire Authority has reported a significant rise in fire-related damages, increasing from $23 million last year to an alarming $26 million this year. This upward trend has raised concerns primarily regarding the adequacy of engineering plans before construction, as highlighted by Chief Executive Officer Sowane Puamau in an interview with Fiji One News.
Puamau expressed worry over the escalating costs associated with fire damage, indicating that the figures are a clear signal of the need for better compliance with fire safety standards. He emphasized that adherence to these standards is crucial in preventing fire incidents and reducing potential losses.
“We have implemented an awareness campaign and a strategic plan aimed at decreasing the number of unexpected fires by 5 percent annually. However, achieving this goal has proven challenging, particularly because a significant number of the homes affected have lacked proper engineering plans approved by the council,” he mentioned.
Since November 1, there have been four homes destroyed by fire, bringing the total number of fire incidents to 173, compared to 161 during the same period last year.
To conclude, while the increase in fire damage is troubling, it provides an opportunity for communities and authorities to reflect on safety practices and improve compliance with fire regulations. Educational initiatives and stricter enforcement of building codes could lead to a reduction in fire incidents in the future, ultimately protecting lives and property.
In summary, the rising statistics serve not only as a wake-up call for builders and homeowners but also as a beacon for proactive measures to enhance fire safety and community resilience.
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