As Fiji prepares for the festive season, National Fire Authority Chief Executive Puamau Sowane has raised significant concerns about fire safety. His remarks follow a recent devastating fire at Taci Village, Noco, Rewa, which left a family home in ruins.
An emergency call was made to the NFA on Wednesday afternoon at 4:24 p.m. about a fire consuming a two-bedroom house. Firefighters from the Nausori Fire Station promptly responded and arrived to see local residents attempting to extinguish the flames with buckets of water. By 4:57 p.m., the firefighters had successfully brought the blaze under control.
Investigations revealed the fire was accidental, affecting the home of Kesaia Talemaitoga and her family—comprising her four children, mother, and mother-in-law. Unfortunately, the house was uninsured, leading to damages estimated at $40,000, with 90 percent of the structure lost. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, and adjacent properties remained unharmed.
Sowane stressed the increased fire risks during the festive period and urged community members to take responsibility for fire prevention. He noted that safety begins with simple, everyday habits and called attention to the importance of drivers and road users being vigilant, especially when fire trucks respond to emergencies. He implored motorists to yield to these vehicles, emphasizing that their timely arrivals can be crucial in protecting lives and property.
This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the critical need for heightened fire safety awareness during the festive season, which has historically seen a surge in fire-related incidents. The NFA’s commitment to educating the public on fire risks is vital for creating a safer community. With collective efforts and adherence to fire safety practices, there is an optimistic outlook for a safe and joyful holiday season ahead.