The National Fire Authority has provided further details regarding a house fire in Jittu Estate that tragically resulted in the death of a mother of five. NFA’s Chief Executive Officer, Puamau Sowane, indicated that investigations suggest that the deceased may have attempted to take her own life prior to the incident, raising serious concerns about mental health and domestic issues.
Sowane appealed to the community, especially couples, emphasizing the importance of resolving conflicts peacefully to prevent such tragedies. He noted the devastating impact that these kinds of situations have on families, not just in terms of loss of life but also in the extensive property damage that often ensues, leaving families in dire circumstances.
On the afternoon of the fire, the NFA received an emergency call reporting flames at a property on Grantham Rd in Raiwaqa. The Suva Fire Station responded quickly with two trucks and eight officers arriving at approximately 2:48 p.m., only to find the home fully ablaze. At the time of the fire, the house was occupied by the couple and their five children. The father managed to evacuate all the children but tragically lost his wife amidst the chaos as he attempted to save her.
This incident is part of an alarming increase in fire-related occurrences in the area, prompting the Fiji Police Force to encourage residents to be vigilant about potential fire hazards in their homes. Fire safety measures and regular inspections have been advocated to protect lives and property and to foster a proactive safety culture within the community.
Similar incidents in nearby regions have underscored the pressing need for enhanced fire safety awareness. Authorities stress that such tragedies must serve as a catalyst for positive changes, potentially inspiring communities to strengthen fire safety protocols and better prepare for emergencies.
While the loss in this tragic event is profound, there is hope that the community will rally together to address these issues, leading to improved safety measures that could prevent future incidents and ensure the wellbeing of all residents.
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