Fire destroys abandoned college quarters, NFA warns of rising risk from vacant buildings

A fire that razed abandoned staff quarters at Nadroga Navosa Technical College in Cuvu, Sigatoka, has prompted the National Fire Authority (NFA) to issue a fresh warning about the growing danger posed by neglected and vacant buildings across Fiji.

The blaze, which broke out on Tuesday afternoon, completely destroyed the unoccupied building and drew firefighters into a nearly two-hour battle to contain the flames.

Firefighters from the Sigatoka Fire Station responded to an emergency call at 5.25pm and brought the fire under control shortly before 7.30pm.

The timber building, measuring about 10 metres by 12 metres, was completely destroyed. Owned by the Nadroga Navosa Provincial Council, the uninsured quarters had been vacant for several years.

The building contained three bedrooms, a sitting room, kitchen, dining area, toilet and bathroom. Its walls, flooring and internal framing were primarily timber, contributing to the rapid spread of the fire.

NFA chief executive officer Puamau Sowane said neglected buildings were becoming an increasing concern nationwide because of the risks they posed to nearby communities and emergency services.

“Buildings that are left unoccupied for extended periods often become highly vulnerable due to a lack of maintenance, delayed detection of hazards, and increased exposure to trespassing, vandalism and unsafe use of the premises,” Mr Sowane said.

“Vacant properties remain a growing concern because they can quickly result in major fire losses when left unmanaged.”

Mr Sowane said fires involving vacant buildings were placing unnecessary pressure on the authority's resources as operating costs continued to climb.

“These types of fires are increasingly placing unnecessary pressure on the National Fire Authority’s resources, especially as operational costs have risen significantly because of higher fuel prices.”

He said property owners and custodians must take responsibility for securing, inspecting and maintaining vacant buildings to reduce preventable fire risks.

Mr Sowane said greater awareness and proactive management of abandoned structures were critical to protecting neighbouring properties and communities from avoidable fire incidents.

The NFA has urged property owners, institutions and custodians to take immediate steps to manage vacant buildings and minimise fire risks.

A full investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire.