Family of five escapes unharmed after Labasa house fire

A family of five escaped unharmed after a fire destroyed a double-storey home on Salusalu Street in Labasa on Tuesday morning.

The National Fire Authority (NFA) said it received an emergency call through the 910 line at 7.24am. Firefighters from the Labasa Fire Station arrived six minutes later to find the house fully engulfed in flames.

Two fire appliances and an ambulance were deployed as crews worked to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to nearby properties.

NFA chief executive officer Puamau Sowane said firefighters used multiple hose lines and a portable pump drawing water from a nearby drain to protect an adjacent one-bedroom house.

"The quick response by our firefighters helped contain the fire and prevent further damage," Mr Sowane said.

He said the occupants were alerted after the homeowner's grandson noticed smoke and flames and raised the alarm.

"All occupants managed to escape safely. There were no injuries or fatalities reported," he said.

The property, measuring about 24 by 21 feet, sustained an estimated 80 to 90 per cent damage.

Police spokesperson Sergeant Wame Bautolu confirmed the fire occurred at about 7.30am, and investigations are continuing to determine the cause.

The house belongs to Kanta Prasad, who is currently in Suva. His son-in-law, Sam Mudaliar, said the double-storey section was completely destroyed.

"My elder son saw smoke filling the house and tried to use a fire extinguisher, but he could not put out the fire," Mr Mudaliar said.

He said the fire started on the upper level of the house, not in the kitchen. The five-bedroom home is valued at about $500,000.

Mr Sowane urged the public to install smoke alarms, avoid overloading power outlets and ensure families have an evacuation plan.

"Early warning and preparedness can save lives," he said.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.