Yako Village in Nadi has become the first to be part of the Integrated Community Fire Warden and Emergency Response Framework.

The National Fire Authority initiative was launched by Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama yesterday.

Thirty-one men from Yako Village underwent a three-week training course in basic fire training, tsunami drills, and first aid training.

Mr Bainimarama said there was a need for such initiative given the frequency of fires in the nation and the impact it had on Fijian lives.

He said 20 fires had been reported in just the first two months of the year. He said fires had cost the nation $13 million in 2020.

“We need to go beyond the statistics because each of these house fires has a human story. Just this week, a house fire in Nadele, Sabeto claimed the lives of an elderly couple and their five-month-old grandchild,” he said.

Mr Bainimarama commended the undertaking by Yako villagers.

“I want to commend all of you who have offered valuable time for the safety of your homes and your community,” he said.

Mr Bainimarama said the National Fire Authority created a mechanism to involve citizens and communities in the work of fire prevention.

“NFA have been busy educating the public about fire safety and have entitled the public in the task of preventing fires,” he said.

Meanwhile village headman Jonacani Batirua said they were honoured by such an initiative that contributes to the safety of their people.

“We are grateful to the Prime Minister in recognising the effort that was done by the villagers in ensuring safety for every household in this village,” he said.

“We are also proud of our boys who have tirelessly completed the three weeks training.”

Mr Bainimarama highlighted that the best way to fight a  fire was to prevent it.

“This is a job for all citizens and not just our professional fire fighters,” he said.

“Preventing fires is a community responsibility. A fire in your house can spread to your neighbour’s house and beyond.

“This is a national effort and I would like to acknowledge the Yako Village community for being the first in Fiji to adopt this framework.

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