House fires surge, NFA sounds alarm
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Residential fires are increasing in Fiji, with a recent blaze damaging a vacant home in Ba.
- Faulty wiring and simple safety oversights are leading causes, prompting the National Fire Authority to urge homeowners to check appliances and electrical systems.
- The NFA advises regular checks for vacant homes and reminds the public to call 910 for fire emergencies.
The National Fire Authority (NFA) in Fiji is raising concerns over a surge in residential fires, highlighted by a recent incident where a vacant three-bedroom concrete house in Ba was extensively damaged. Firefighters responded quickly, controlling the blaze within 25 minutes, but the home sustained approximately 80 percent damage and was uninsured.
many incidents linked to simple safety oversights.
NFA Chief Executive Officer Puamau Sowane stated that many fires stem from basic safety lapses. He urged homeowners to ensure cooking appliances are switched off and unused electrical devices are unplugged. Sowane emphasized that poorly maintained electrical wiring, especially in older homes, remains a primary cause of residential fires.
faulty electrical wiring remains one of the leading causes of residential fires in Fiji, warning that older homes are particularly vulnerable if electrical systems are not properly maintained.
The authority also recommends that owners of vacant properties arrange for regular checks by neighbors or relatives. The public is reminded to contact 910 immediately in case of any fire or emergency.
call 910 immediately in the event of a fire or emergency.
Originally published by FBC News. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.