The National Fire Authority (NFA) has issued a warning to the public to stay vigilant and implement additional safety measures to prevent fires, especially following the first property fire reported this year. This call to action was made by Acting Chief Executive Officer Joel Israel after a house fire occurred yesterday afternoon along Princes Road in Tacirua.
The emergency call was received by the NFA Command Centre at 3:01 PM, prompting swift response from the Suva Fire Station. Fire crews arrived on the scene by 3:12 PM, discovering a three-bedroom lean-to house engulfed in flames, located opposite the Tacirua Bus Garage. Multiple hoses and water supplies from fire trucks were deployed to tackle the blaze, which was completely extinguished by 4:22 PM. Unfortunately, the house suffered 99 percent damage with a total floor area of 396 square meters, but fortunately, no injuries were reported. Firefighters successfully prevented the fire from spreading to a neighboring home.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. With New Year celebrations still underway and the school year fast approaching, Israel emphasizes the importance of practicing fire safety at home. He recommends that families refrain from leaving cooking unattended, keep flammable items away from heat sources, and perform regular checks on electrical wiring.
Moreover, Israel advises households to avoid overloading electrical outlets, securely store matches and lighters away from children’s reach, and ensure that everyone in the household knows how to react in the event of a fire. Last year, 186 property fires were recorded, most of which inflicted damage exceeding 90 percent. The leading causes of these incidents were traced to electrical faults, followed by suspicious and deliberate fires.
The NFA continues to remind the public to promptly dial 910 in case of a fire, as timely responses are crucial for saving lives and protecting property. As the community reflects on the importance of fire safety, this incident serves as a vital reminder of the measures that can be taken to ensure safety at home, ultimately encouraging a proactive approach to firefighting preparedness and prevention.
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