NFA Support Families of Fallen Firefighters

The National Fire Authority (NFA) is reaffirming its commitment to providing ongoing financial support to the families of fallen firefighters through its compassionate policy.

This initiative provides crucial aid to the families of firefighters who lose their lives while still in service to the NFA.

Under the policy, NFA’s medical insurer extends a $10,000 benefit to the next of kin of any firefighter who dies in the line of duty.

This was highlighted recently when NFA’S chief executive officer, Puamau Sowane, presented a Term Life benefit of $10,000 to Sei Kalini Tarusila, the widow of qualified firefighter Peceli Maisuva.

The late Mr Maisuva, who had been stationed at Levuka Fire Station, died in October after a short illness while actively serving.

“We are immensely proud of the bravery and dedication shown by our firefighters every day,” Mr Sowane said during the handover.

“This policy is one way we can express our gratitude for their service and ensure that their families are supported during such challenging times.”

An emotional Ms Tarusala.

The initiative, which began in 2022 following the tragic loss of a firefighter, has provided crucial financial relief to the families of fallen staff.

Since then, the programme has been extended to the families of three more firefighters who tragically lost their lives in the line of duty. In 2023 alone, two firefighters passed away while serving with the authority.

So far in 2024, four additional firefighters have died, and each family has received the $10,000 benefit.

In total, the NFA has distributed $70,000 through the policy to date.

“This initiative reflects NFA’s ongoing investment in honouring the service and sacrifice of our firefighters,” Mr Sowane added.

“We remain committed to standing by our staff and their families, recognising their invaluable contributions to both the organisation and the communities they protect.”

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