A series of residential fires across the country has prompted the National Fire Authority (NFA) to issue fresh warnings to homeowners. Over a span of three days, four houses were destroyed with damages estimated at around $150,000.
The first incident took place on July 26 in Wai Settlement, Wailoku, where a couple and their grandson narrowly escaped a fire that completely destroyed their home. The woman sustained burns while rescuing her grandson.
On July 27, a second fire was reported in Balabala Village, Rakiraki, leaving a 65-year-old woman and her son’s family homeless. The damage was estimated at $30,000.
Later that day in Vitogo, Lautoka, a house owned by an Australian resident, was reported on fire. The house, occupied by a 32-year-old man, was vacant at the time. The estimated damage was also $30,000.
Another fire in Tagitagi, Nadi, destroyed a home belonging to a 41-year-old salesman, with damages estimated at $40,000.
NFA CEO Puamau Sowane stated that these fires were preventable. He urged the public to secure their properties before leaving for school, work, shopping, or any other activities.
“Power points need to be switched off, electrical appliances need to be turned off and stored away, kerosene and gas stoves need to be turned off and gas cylinders closed, and flammable items and materials need to be stored properly,” Sowane advised. “All these steps should be taken before leaving a house unoccupied.”