Staff turnover worries firefighters

The National Fire Authority (NFA) is focused on addressing the increase in staff turnover.

It is working on retention strategies to enhance their work ethics, says NFA chief executive officer, Puamau Sowane.

He said this during his tour of the North last week.

Mr Sowane said attendance was a priority area that needed to be addressed.

The inspection began with an official parade at Labasa Fire Station, followed by a detailed assessment of the station’s maintenance, operational readiness and overall sustainability.

“Our role is to reduce fire incidents nationwide,” he said.

Mr Sowane also visited the fire station at Levuka, Ovalau where he highlighted the importance of safeguarding the heritage town where many buildings were of historical value and more vulnerable to fire incidents.

The station oversaw two industrial sites, 55 commercial buildings, 16 schools and a total of 30 villages and settlements.