Two homes destroyed in Sabeto fire

Two homes were destroyed and 12 people left homeless after an early morning fire at Vunayawa Settlement in Natalau, Sabeto, near Nadi yesterday.

The National Fire Authority said the Nadi Fire Station received an emergency call at about 3.43am reporting a house fire about 20 kilometres outside the station’s fire boundary.

Two fire trucks, nine firefighters and Ambulance 2 with two duty officers were dispatched to the scene.

Firefighters arrived at about 4.08am and found two neighbouring homes fully engulfed in flames.

The six-bedroom houses, built with concrete and corrugated iron materials, were completely destroyed.

Fire crews used one 38mm hose and one 64mm hose from tank supply to stop the fire from spreading to nearby homes. Water was replenished from a hydrant about three kilometres away.

The fire was extinguished at about 5.30am before crews returned to the station.

The first property belonged to Mr Kinijoji Vuda, 58, a farmer, while the second belonged to Mr Vereimi Tidrasi, who works for Rosie Tours.

The affected structure measured about 38 metres by 15 metres. The National Fire Authority said both homes suffered 100 per cent damage, but the total value of property and contents lost has yet to be determined.

Both homes were occupied at the time of the fire, but no injuries were reported.

National Fire Authority chief executive officer Puamau Sowane said the incident highlighted growing concerns over structural fires across the country.

“This incident is truly heartbreaking, especially knowing that 12 people have now been displaced and have lost their homes and belongings. Fires not only destroy properties, but they also leave emotional and psychological impacts on families who are forced to rebuild their lives from nothing,” said Mr Sowane.

Mr Sowane said Fiji had recorded 10 fire-related deaths this year.

“To date, Fiji has already recorded 10 fire related deaths this year alone. This is a deeply concerning statistic and a stark reminder that fire safety must be taken seriously in every household.”

“We are urging members of the public to remain vigilant and proactive when it comes to fire safety. Many fires can be prevented through simple precautions and awareness.”

A fire investigation will be carried out to determine the cause of the blaze.