Facebook can be put to good use to help save lives!

For Seini Salawaqa and her family, they are safe today because her brother, Ropate Valemei, had posted on Facebook that she needed help urgently.

Despite living in a two-storey home at Salababa Road in Waila, the safety of Ms Salawaqa and her family was almost compromised after she saw rising waters reaching her doorstep.

“I was chatting with my brother Ropate Valemei and I told him what had happened so he posted on Facebook asking for help. After his post, a lot of people called me trying to help,” Ms Salawaqa said.

“The wife of a priest who lives nearby saw my brother’s post and called me saying they had a boat that could come and rescue us.”

Within minutes of Mr Valemei’s post, officers from the Fiji Police Force were at his sister’s doorstep with lifejackets to assist them.

Today, Ms Salawaqa and the family are grateful to their brave neighbours and Police officers who answered their call for help.

She said flood waters in the past would only enter their compound and recede without causing any alarm to them or damage to their belongings.

Ms Salawaqa, together with her 15-year-old son and nephew, were successfully evacuated to the Sawani Primary School in Waila.

Her husband stayed back to look after their belongings.

Mr Valemei took to social media again to thank everyone who reached out to help. His post reached more than 200 shares within minutes of the posting.

“Not all heroes wear capes. These are the real life heroes that rescued my sister and her children tonight (Sunday), stranded at their home in Waila,” he posted.

“I’m humbled by your bravery and willing heart to assist during this time, putting your lives at risk. To all first responders and good Samaritans, thank you.”

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