The National Fire Authority (NFA) has issued a strong warning to the public, urging homeowners and occupants to maintain heightened vigilance against fire hazards, especially after a recent incident in Waiyavi Stage 1, Lautoka, which occurred on October 29, 2025. The call for increased awareness comes from NFA Chief Executive Officer Puamau Sowane, who highlighted the ongoing risk of fires in residential areas.
On the day of the incident, firefighters were alerted to a property fire at 11:02 a.m., and they arrived on the scene just four minutes later. Upon arrival, they found a duplex house completely engulfed in flames. Initial investigations determined that the fire began in one of the flats, occupied by an adult and two children, one of whom, a Year 3 student, identified the smoke and flames and promptly notified the adult. The other flat was home to a couple and their two children.
The affected flat, measuring 168 square meters and featuring a combination of concrete and wooden structures, experienced significant damage, with estimates of 80% structural loss amounting to $120,000. The adjoining flat, housing ten occupants, also sustained partial damage from the fire.
Sowane emphasized the necessity for vigilant housekeeping practices and fire safety measures to prevent such alarming incidents. He noted that despite ongoing awareness campaigns, the number of unwanted fires remains a concern. The NFA is aiming for a 5% reduction in property fires annually, which they deem a realistic objective amid continuing fire occurrences.
The recent fire in Lautoka mirrors previous warnings from the NFA about the need for community vigilance. With a growing number of incidents attributed to negligence, Sowane urged families to adopt basic safety precautions, such as safely storing flammable materials and keeping electrical appliances turned off when not in use.
As the community reflects on these alarming incidents, the hope remains that through improved awareness and adherence to fire safety practices, the risk of future fires can be significantly reduced, fostering a safer living environment for all residents. The recurring plea from the NFA serves as a vital reminder that collective vigilance and proactive measures can prevent disasters and safeguard homes.