Over 700 fire calls and seven deaths in three weeks: NFA

More than 700 fire calls and seven fatalities have been recorded in just the first three weeks of this month.

This was revealed by the National Fire Authority (NFA), who is alarmed by the rising number of fire incidents across Fiji. 

Between October 1 and 22, a total of 707 fire calls were logged nationwide. The Western Division recorded 334 incidents resulting in four deaths, the Northern Division reported 365 fires with one fatality, and the Central Division saw eight fires leading to two deaths.

NFA chief executive officer Puamau Sowane said the statistics were troubling and reflected a pattern of preventable fires that continue to claim lives and destroy livelihoods.

“These numbers are not just statistics, they represent lives lost, homes destroyed, and communities suffering,” said Mr Sowane.

“Every single one of these fires could have been prevented with more caution, awareness, and responsibility.” 

Preliminary investigations show that most fires in the Western and Northern Divisions were bushfires, often caused by careless burning, improper waste disposal, and unattended open flames during the prolonged dry spell.

In the Central Division, structural fires remain a major concern, frequently triggered by unattended cooking, electrical faults, and unsafe use of candles, mosquito coils, and gas appliances.

The NFA also highlighted the tragic fire on Yacata Island on October 16, which claimed the life of an infant. Due to the island’s remoteness, the Authority was unable to respond, underscoring the need for community-level preparedness and fire safety awareness in maritime and rural areas. 

Mr Sowane stressed that complacency and neglect were costing lives. 

“This is not just an NFA issue, it’s a national concern. We continue to respond to hundreds of fire calls every month, but we cannot be everywhere at once. The public must take fire prevention seriously.” 

The NFA also shared safety tips:

• Turn off stoves and electrical appliances when not in use;
• Avoid careless burning of rubbish, especially during dry weather;
• Never leave open flames unattended, including candles and mosquito coils;
• Dispose of waste properly to prevent accidental fires;
• Have an escape plan in case of a fire emergency;
• Report any signs of fire immediately by calling 910;
• Do not start fires unnecessarily, especially in bushy or dry areas;
• Be cautious with gas appliances and ensure they are used safely; and
• Seek fire safety advice from your nearest fire station.

The NFA continues to remind the public that fire safety is a shared responsibility. Members of the public are encouraged to contact their nearest fire station for fire safety advice, community awareness programmes, and home fire safety visits.