Family of six left homeless after Tavua house fire

A family of six has been left homeless after a fire destroyed their uninsured home in Wainiboce, Tavua, on Tuesday night.

The National Fire Authority (NFA) confirmed the single-bedroom timber home, which included a living room, kitchen, dining area, toilet and bathroom, was vacant at the time of the fire.

No one was injured, but the house was completely destroyed, with the NFA yet to determine the cost of the damage.

The NFA received the emergency call at 8.19pm and immediately dispatched firefighters from Tavua Fire Station. A second appliance with two off-duty firefighters was also deployed to assist.

Firefighters arrived at 8.50pm and found the 12-metre by 10-metre house fully engulfed in flames.

Crews used a 38mm hose line supplied by the appliance’s onboard water tank to contain the blaze, which was extinguished by 9.15pm.

The house was connected to electricity and used a borehole water supply. NFA investigators are working to determine the cause of the fire.

NFA chief executive officer Puamau Sowane said the authority was concerned about the increasing number of house fires occurring while homes were unoccupied.

“We are seeing a concerning trend where homes are catching fire while no one is present. Every homeowner has a responsibility to ensure their home is safe before leaving, even if it is only for a short period,” Mr Sowane said.

He urged homeowners to carry out basic safety checks before leaving their homes.

“Before you lock your doors, make sure cooking appliances are switched off, electrical appliances that are not in use are unplugged, candles are fully extinguished and any potential fire hazards are removed. Avoid overloading power outlets and ensure electrical wiring is in good condition,” he said.

Mr Sowane said spending a few minutes checking a home before leaving could help prevent devastating fires.

The NFA continues to remind the public that fire safety begins with individual responsibility and is encouraging households to make fire prevention part of their daily routine.