Two major residential fires causes extensive damage in Nadi and Makoi

The first incident occurred on yesterday when a fire engulfed two one-bedroom houses at Valenimasima in Votualevu, Nadi.

The National Fire Authority received the emergency call at 9:17pm, and the Nadi Fire Station dispatched two fire appliances and an ambulance.

Firefighters arrived at 9:33pm and successfully contained the blaze using hoses and breathing apparatus.

The properties, owned by 28-year-old Ashnil Narayan, were largely destroyed, with preliminary estimates indicating 90 percent structural damage valued at approximately $50,000.

All five occupants escaped unharmed.

Earlier, a fire at a four-bedroom concrete house on Pritam Singh Road in Makoi caused between 80 to 90 percent damage.

The Authority received the call at 4:02pm, with crews arriving within seven minutes and extinguishing the fire by 4:24pm.

NFA CEO, Puamau Sowane, expressed concern over the increasing number of residential fires across Fiji.

He urges residents to prioritise fire safety at home, including checking electrical systems, safely storing gas cylinders, supervising children near open flames, and practising safe cooking habits.

Sowane emphasises the importance of immediate reporting, saying quick response can limit damage and save lives.

The Authority has reminded the public to dial 910 in emergencies and reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing fire awareness campaigns nationwide.

Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of both fires.