NFA urges vigilance after series of fires in Rakiraki, Nadi, Tavua

Three structural fires in Rakiraki, Nadi and Tavua over two days have raised concerns for the National Fire Authority (NFA), with homes damaged or destroyed and families displaced.

The fires occurred on October 9 and 10, highlighting the need for greater vigilance and fire prevention across the Western Division.

In Wairuku, Rakiraki, firefighters responded at about 10.30am on October 9 to a fire that had engulfed a three-bedroom house.

The house sustained an estimated 70 per cent structural damage, leaving five family members homeless.

The property was uninsured, and the homeowner’s mother sustained minor hand injuries while looking after her grandchildren.

Later that afternoon, firefighters responded to a fire at Nawaicoba, Nadi, where a vacant six-bedroom house sustained an estimated 95 per cent structural damage.

The building had reportedly been vacant for about two years.

On October 10, a residential structure at Natolevu, Tavua, about 35 kilometres from the Tavua Fire Station, was completely destroyed. The damage was estimated at $15,000.

The house had no electricity or water supply and was uninsured.

NFA chief executive officer Puamau Sowane said the incidents highlighted the devastating consequences of residential fires.

“Every fire incident carries the potential for serious injury, loss of life and long-term hardship for those affected. While the causes of these fires are still being investigated, the damage reported reinforces the importance of taking fire prevention seriously and ensuring that properties are maintained in a safe condition,” he said.

Mr Sowane urged households to take practical steps to prevent fires and protect their families.

“We cannot afford to be complacent about fire safety. I urge every household to check its electrical installations, use cooking appliances responsibly, keep potential ignition sources away from children and ensure that everyone in the home knows what to do in the event of a fire.”

He also stressed the importance of reporting fires immediately.

“Members of the public must not delay reporting a fire. If you notice smoke, flames or any sign of a fire, raise the alarm, move to a safe location and call 910 immediately.”

The causes of all three fires remain under investigation.