A vacant house in Naikabula, Lautoka, was completely destroyed by a structural fire, leading the National Fire Authority (NFA) to issue a warning for property owners regarding the risks associated with unattended buildings. Firefighters from the Lautoka Fire Station were alerted to the fire at 1:18 PM on February 24 and arrived within seven minutes, only to find the three-bedroom structure fully engulfed in flames.
The firefighting teams deployed two hose lines and utilized a nearby hydrant to refill their equipment, managing to bring the fire under control by 1:30 PM. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident.
NFA Chief Executive Officer Puamau Sowane emphasized the heightened risks posed by vacant and unmonitored properties. These risks stem from deteriorating electrical systems, potential illegal entry, accumulation of waste, overgrown vegetation, and the possibility of arson. He specifically urged homeowners, especially those living abroad, to take on the responsibility of regular maintenance and security for their properties to mitigate such hazards.
Additionally, Sowane expressed concern that the house had been ablaze for approximately an hour before emergency services were notified. “Time is a decisive factor in firefighting. The earlier we are notified, the greater the chance of containing the fire,” he noted.
A formal investigation is currently underway to ascertain the cause of the fire, highlighting the importance of timely alerts in emergency situations. This incident serves as a reminder for property owners to remain vigilant and proactive about their unoccupied properties to prevent catastrophic occurrences.