A family in Vunivau, Labasa, suffered a devastating loss when their home, valued at approximately $200,000 and built over a span of 45 years, was destroyed by fire last Friday night. Prasheel Naicker, aged 27, reported that his father, grandmother, and uncle were inside the house when the fire broke out, while he was attending a gathering with relatives in Labasa Town.
The fire originated in the family’s prayer room and quickly spread to the roof. It was noticed by two passersby who alerted the family. Naicker expressed frustration over the delayed response from the National Fire Authority (NFA), highlighting that if help had arrived sooner, they might have salvaged some belongings. Despite multiple attempts to contact the NFA and even rushing to the local fire station, their arrival was too late to save anything from the house.
This incident marks the second significant house fire in the Northern Division within just two weeks. The first fire occurred on New Year’s Day in Waiqele, Labasa, where another family’s home was also completely lost while they were away. The earlier fire caused damages estimated at around $250,000, raising concerns about response times and safety regulations in rural areas.
Acting Divisional Police Commander North, Superintendent Eroni Soqosoqo, confirmed that investigations into both fires are ongoing. These tragedies have sparked discussions about the urgent need for improved fire safety measures and resources in rural communities, where geographical challenges often hinder effective emergency response.
In light of these heartbreaking events, there is hope that the resilience displayed by the affected families, along with community support, can lead to meaningful changes in fire safety protocols. Community vigilance and cooperation are essential to prevent future tragedies and ensure families feel secure in their homes. Such collaborative efforts could significantly enhance safety standards and preparedness in vulnerable areas.
In summary, while the Naicker family faces a profound loss, their experience may catalyze necessary improvements in fire safety infrastructure, fostering a safer environment for all residents.
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