A person is homeless after a fire damaged their home in Veteke Settlement, Lovu, Lautoka yesterday morning.
The National Fire Authority says Firefighters were able to control a blaze engulfing a corrugated iron and timber house yesterday morning.
NFA the property belongs to Mohammed Adil Khan and consists of two flats.
They say the first flat, which was vacant at the time of the incident, contained two bedrooms, a living room, kitchen, toilet, and bathroom while the second flat, occupied by one tenant, had a similar layout with an additional concrete verandah.
NFA says initial assessments indicate that the structure sustained approximately 80 percent damage, with estimated losses to the property and contents valued at around $35,000. One adult has been left homeless as a result of the fire.
NFA CEO Puamau Sowane, expressed concern over the increasing number of structural fires recorded around the country.
He says they are deeply concerned with the continued rise in residential fire incidents.
Sowane says these fires not only result in major property losses but also place lives and neighbouring communities at risk.
The CEO is urging members of the public to remain vigilant and ensure proper fire safety measures are practiced at all times, especially in residential areas.
Sowane says even when homes are vacant, electrical appliances, unsafe wiring, unattended cooking equipment, or improperly discarded materials can pose serious fire risks.
NFA is strongly encouraging homeowners and tenants to regularly inspect their homes and immediately address any potential hazards.
They says the cause of the fire remains unknown at this stage and investigations will be conducted to determine the probable cause.
NFA continues to urge the public to report fires immediately by calling 910.
