An elderly man in his 70s, who had experienced a stroke, tragically lost his life in a house fire in Navakai, Nadi, on the afternoon of August 20th. The fire broke out around 2:00 PM while he was alone in the four-bedroom home, which was constructed from wood and corrugated iron. Unfortunately, firefighters from the National Fire Authority (NFA) were unable to save the structure.
Following the incident, NFA CEO Puamau Sowane expressed deep condolences to the victim’s family, describing the situation as “very sad and tragic.” He emphasized the heightened risk for individuals who are handicapped or unable to care for themselves when left at home alone. This incident marks the fourth fire fatality of the year, with three of the previous victims being unable to escape due to physical limitations.
Since 2021, the average annual fire deaths have been around six, although the previous year saw a significant drop to three. Authorities, including the NFA and Fiji Police, are investigating the cause of the fire while simultaneously urging the public to remain vigilant about fire safety, especially for those with disabilities.
Recent reports have underscored a concerning rise in fire incidents, highlighting the critical need for enhanced safety measures within homes. Essential precautions, such as regular fire hazard checks, can help prevent such tragic outcomes in the future.
As the community comes together during this challenging time, there is hope that increased awareness and improved safety practices will avert further tragedies connected to house fires. Staying united and proactive about fire safety can ensure a safer environment for everyone.
Leave a comment