Six killed in house fires this month

Nine people have lost their lives in structural fires this year, with this month alone six lives lost – five in Baulevu, Nausori, and one in Brown Street, Suva.

National Fire Authority chief executive officer, Puamau Sowane, stressed that many of these incidents could have been prevented through early detection systems, public awareness, and improved safety practices.

He raised concerns over an increase in fire incidents, particularly those occurring during late-night hours.

The warning follows a major residential fire at Volivoli Road in Rakiraki in the early hours of Monday, which destroyed a family home with four inside the home during the incident.

Mr Sowane confirmed the Rakiraki Fire Station received an emergency call from Rakiraki Police Station reporting a structural fire.

Firefighters responded promptly and extinguished the blaze. Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) personnel were also on site to manage electrical hazards.

“According to the caretaker, all occupants were asleep when the fire was first detected on the ground floor. Despite attempts to extinguish the flames, the fire spread rapidly throughout the structure. All occupants managed to escape unharmed,” Mr Sowane said.

The property, owned by Faraah Ghaboos of Nausori, was constructed with timber walls and flooring, which contributed to the rapid spread of the fire; with damage estimated at 95 per cent.

“This incident is extremely concerning. The fire of such magnitude started while occupants were asleep highlights how vulnerable families are during the night. While there was no loss of life, the risk was very real.

“When homes are built with combustible materials like timber, fire spreads aggressively and unpredictably. Without early warning systems, occupants may not have enough time to escape. “

“We are seeing a pattern of fires occurring at times when families are most vulnerable. This must be addressed through stronger awareness, preparedness, and the installation of basic life-saving devices.”

NFA is urging members of the public to take stronger fire safety precautions, particularly in aged and vacant buildings.

Residents are advised to install smoke alarms, avoid electrical overloading, maintain wiring systems, keep escape routes clear, and ensure cooking is never left unattended.

Members of the public must immediately report fire emergencies by calling 910.