A 14-year-old girl heroically saved her one-year-old twin sisters from a fire that ravaged their home on Tavakubu Back Road, Lautoka, on July 2.
The fire began while the parents were at work, leaving the teenager and the twins alone in their one-bedroom house.
The blaze is believed to have been ignited by a mosquito coil that accidentally fell onto a pile of clothes.
Initially unaware of the danger, the girl noticed the heat and smoke and swiftly evacuated her sisters to a neighbor’s house.
The National Fire Authority (NFA) was alerted at 9:24pm, and firefighters arrived at 9:31pm to find the corrugated iron and timber house fully engulfed in flames.
They managed to contain the fire, preventing it from spreading to nearby structures.
Despite their efforts, the house was completely destroyed, with damages estimated at $25,000.
Fortunately, there were no injuries, but the house was uninsured.
NFA Chief Executive Officer Puamau Sowane emphasized the importance of vigilance and fire safety, especially when children are left at home.
“Lives are priceless compared to properties, which can be rebuilt. We urge the public to have fire prevention plans and to educate their children about fire safety,” he said.