A family is left homeless after a property fire completely destroyed their one-bedroom home in Navicula Village, Korovou, on Wednesday afternoon.
The National Fire Authority says the house, owned by 63-year-old Paula Vakaoroivalu and 61-year-old Vilimaina Tinai, was occupied by two adults and a child.
They add that the house, which was built from corrugated iron and timber, was completely destroyed, with damage estimated at $40,000, and the property was not insured.
The NFA says preliminary information indicates that Tinai and her two-month-old grandchild were at home when the fire started, and that she told authorities she heard loud bangs while in the kitchen but did not investigate.
They add that moments later, she saw smoke and flames, quickly evacuated with the baby, and no injuries were reported.
The NFA says they received an emergency call at 2:19pm and dispatched a fire truck with eight firefighters from the Korovou Fire Station a minute later, arriving at 2:37pm.
They say that upon arrival, the crew found the house completely engulfed in flames, and the firefighters were able to fully extinguish the fire by 2:49pm.
NFA’s Chief Executive Officer expressed deep concern, saying the incident highlights how quickly fires can spread and the importance of early detection.
He says that delays in responding to unusual sounds or smells often lead to major losses.
He is urging all households to practise basic fire safety, including installing smoke alarms, checking electrical wiring, keeping cooking attended, and calling 910 immediately at the first sign of danger.
He also warns that the rising number of structural fires is alarming and called for greater vigilance.
The National Fire Authority is reminding the public that fire safety starts at home, and early action is vital to protecting lives and property.
