The National Fire Authority (NFA) has issued an urgent reminder for the public to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent fires in the wake of the first reported house fire of 2026. This call to action comes after a three-bedroom lean-to house was completely destroyed by flames in Tacirua on January 3, 2026.
NFA Acting Chief Executive Officer Joel Israel reported that emergency services received a call about the fire at 3:01 PM. Fire crews from the Suva Fire Station arrived at the scene just 11 minutes later, finding the house engulfed in flames. Firefighters worked swiftly, deploying multiple hose lines and utilizing water supplies from their trucks, managing to control the fire and extinguish it by 4:22 PM. Despite the extensive damage—approximately 99 percent of the house—there were no reported injuries, and firefighters successfully contained the blaze, preventing it from spreading to neighboring properties.
The cause of this fire remains undetermined, as investigations are currently underway. Mr. Israel emphasized the importance of fire safety, especially during the New Year celebrations and as families prepare for the upcoming school year. He urged the public to avoid leaving cooking unattended, keep flammable materials away from heat sources, and regularly inspect electrical wiring to prevent overloads.
He also advised parents to store matches and lighters out of children’s reach and stressed the significance of having an emergency plan in place, ensuring that all family members know their roles in case of a fire. Last year, the NFA recorded 186 property fires, with electrical faults identified as the primary cause, followed by incendiary-related fires and suspected arson.
“Fire safety starts with individuals doing the right thing by being vigilant and self-aware,” Mr. Israel highlighted. The NFA reminded everyone to call 910 immediately in case of a fire, reiterating that prompt action can be crucial in safeguarding lives and property.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety measures, emphasizing that community vigilance can significantly reduce the risk of future incidents. As New Year festivities continue, taking proactive steps toward fire prevention could save lives and prevent property loss.
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