The National Fire Authority (NFA) has issued a renewed warning to the public regarding fire safety after a concerning surge of incidents, including seven property fires and one road rescue within just three days. The most devastating of these fires occurred at the Gokal Group warehouse in Toorak, which was severely damaged, incurring an estimated loss of $8 million.
NFA Chief Executive Puamau Sowane criticized the ongoing neglect for fire safety messages, as many individuals continue to ignore the advice disseminated through community outreach, radio, television, and print media. In a distressing trend, the recent blazes impacted several locations including Lautoka, Nadi, Bau Road, Narere, Kinoya, and Kumi Village, often affecting vacant properties or families who narrowly escaped.
One poignant case involved a single father whose home was lost while he was at work and his children were at school. In Tailevu, a 67-year-old man and his family were at breakfast when they were alerted to smoke coming from the bedroom, prompting a hasty evacuation.
Sowane urged the community to adopt basic safety measures, including securely storing flammable items, turning off unused power points, and using mosquito coils on non-flammable surfaces. These seemingly small precautions can make a significant difference in preventing fire-related incidents.
In addition to the property fires, firefighters responded to a road accident in Nawaka, Nadi, where a hybrid taxi collided with a fuel truck. Thankfully, there were no reported injuries, but crews worked diligently for nearly five hours to safely drain the diesel from the site.
To date, the NFA has recorded 100 fires this year, consistent with last year’s statistics. The authority is appealing for heightened public awareness of fire safety, as every precaution taken can potentially save lives and property.
The alarming frequency of these incidents emphasizes the necessity for community vigilance and proactive fire safety practices. The NFA’s continuous outreach serves as a hopeful reminder of the collective effort needed to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of all residents. By prioritizing fire safety, there is hope for a more secure living environment moving forward.
Leave a comment