The National Fire Authority has reported a shortage of firefighters nationwide. Chief Executive Officer Sowane Puamau indicated that with approximately 605 firefighters currently on staff, there will be another recruitment drive planned for October of this year.
“We still have a shortfall of firefighters across the country,” Puamau stated. He emphasized that financial constraints limit their hiring capabilities.
Puamau highlighted the need for additional personnel to effectively manage fire operations in Suva, Labasa, and Lautoka. He noted that the recruitment of new firefighters is influenced by the number of fire trucks available and the size of the fire stations. Different categories of fire incidents, ranging from Category A to C, will require varying levels of manpower, which underscores the need for more recruits.