Elderly woman escapes harm as fire destroys Seaqaqa home

The National Fire Authority (NFA) has expressed serious concern after a house fire destroyed a six-bedroom home along Nadogo Road in Seaqaqa on yesterday afternoon.

The NFA said the fire completely gutted the timber-and-corrugated-iron house, leaving the family with nothing.

Seaqqaqa Fire Station received the emergency call at 1.50pm, with a fire appliance dispatched a minute later. Firefighters arrived on scene at 1.56pm, but the house was already fully engulfed in flames.

Despite the rapid response, the structure — measuring approximately 90 feet by 30 feet — suffered an estimated 90 to 100 per cent damage.

The property belongs to Viliame Lawavau. At the time of the fire, only his 70-year-old mother was at home.

Acting NFA chief executive officer Joel Israel said quick action by neighbours prevented a tragedy.

“Neighbours assisted in waking the elderly woman and safely evacuating her from the house. We are grateful that no lives were lost in this devastating fire,” he said.

The fire occurred during rainy conditions in a rural, informal settlement about six kilometres from the fire station. The house was connected to electricity at the time of the incident.

Mr Israel said the cause of the fire remains under investigation but used the incident as a strong reminder to the public about household fire risks.

“This tragedy highlights the dangers of unattended cooking, faulty electrical connections and the importance of preparedness,” he said.

“We urge all Fijians to take fire safety seriously and to dial 910 immediately in any emergency. Early intervention can save lives and prevent the destruction of homes.”

The NFA has again reminded households to never leave cooking unattended, regularly inspect electrical wiring, avoid overloading power points, keep flammable materials away from heat sources and ensure evacuation routes are clear.

Mr Israel said the authority would continue its investigations and public education efforts to reduce fire risks nationwide.

“This incident underscores the importance of vigilance, preparedness and immediate reporting of fire emergencies,” he said.