The National Fire Authority (NFA) is emphasizing the critical importance of fire safety following two significant fires that devastated three homes and a commercial property in Suva. NFA Chief Executive Officer Puamau Sowane has expressed alarm over continued public negligence, stating that many people disregard safety advice despite numerous awareness campaigns.
Sowane is particularly concerned about the delays in informing firefighters. He highlighted that each minute a fire burns, it grows exponentially in size, underlining the urgency of alerting the NFA promptly. The first fire that day erupted at Auto World Trading in Viria East, Vatuwaqa, around 6 a.m., with the NFA being alerted over half an hour later. This delay contributed to 85 percent structural damage to the warehouse, resulting in considerable insured losses.
The second incident occurred shortly after 9 a.m. in Caubati, affecting three homes. Two houses, both valued at $250,000, were completely destroyed. One of the properties belonged to a current soldier, and the other a retired military officer. Preliminary investigations attribute the cause to a child playing with matches, highlighting the need for parental vigilance.
In light of these events, Sowane has urged business owners to install alarm systems for more rapid alerts and stressed the broader necessity for serious adherence to fire safety measures. Reflecting past warnings, the frequency of such fires indicates a consistent pattern of public oversight despite repeated advisories from the NFA.
Historically, the NFA has battled various fire incidents, including severe property damage due to fires in warehouses, homes, and even public community structures. Many fires could be traced back to unattended electrical faults and incendiary actions. The recent spate of fires underscores the importance of maintaining proactive fire safety practices, such as ensuring all electrical appliances are turned off, securely storing flammable materials, and being vigilant about potential fire hazards at home.
The NFA’s persistent outreach efforts are a vital reminder of the collective responsibility required to enhance safety and prevent future devastations. As the incidents reaffirm the necessity for community vigilance, hope remains that increased public awareness will facilitate a safer environment for all residents, thereby reducing the likelihood of similar tragedies occurring.
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