Unattended kerosene stoves are posing serious risks to safety in Lautoka, following a fire that completely destroyed a home on Vomo Street last week. The incident has prompted a strong warning from Joel Israel, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the National Fire Authority, who emphasized the dangers of leaving cooking appliances unmonitored, particularly those that involve open flames.
Israel urges the public to prioritize safety by ensuring that stoves are placed on stable surfaces, keeping flammable materials at a safe distance, and never allowing children to be near cooking areas while appliances are in use.
The fire erupted around 3:30 PM, despite the light drizzle at the time. Firefighters responded promptly, arriving within six minutes to discover the timber and corrugated iron structure completely engulfed in flames. The Lautoka Fire Control dispatched two fire appliances, along with eight firefighters and three ambulances, to manage the situation. Fortunately, all five occupants—three adults and two children—were able to escape without injury.
Israel reiterated the importance of immediate action in the event of a fire, as flames can spread rapidly. A fire investigation is currently underway, and the community is reminded to report any fire incidents by calling 910.
By raising awareness about the dangers of unattended cooking appliances, this incident serves as a crucial reminder for households to take preventive measures to ensure their safety.
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