A vacant residential quarters building at Nadroga/Navosa Technical College in Cuvu, Sigatoka, was completely destroyed in a fire on Tuesday evening, with the National Fire Authority warning that unattended properties pose a growing risk to nearby families and communities.
The fire broke out at the Nadroga/Navosa Technical College quarters, a timber structure owned by the Nadroga/Navosa Provincial Council that had been vacant for several years.
NFA says the Sigatoka Fire Station received an emergency call at about 5.25pm reporting the fire and firefighters responded immediately with one fire appliance and six firefighters, while a second appliance was later deployed to assist.
They say when crews arrived at the scene at about 5.38pm, they found the building fully engulfed in flames.
The quarters measured about 10 metres by 12 metres and consisted of three bedrooms, a sitting room, a kitchen, a dining area, a toilet and a bathroom.
NFA says firefighters used three 64mm hoses and one 38mm hose, drawing water from the fire appliances to prevent the blaze from spreading to nearby structures.
They say the fire was brought under control and completely extinguished at about 7.30pm after firefighters used two full tank supplies of water.
The Authority says the building sustained 100 percent damage and was not insured.
NFA Chief Executive Officer, Puamau Sowane says vacant properties remain a growing concern because they can quickly result in major fire losses when left unmanaged.
He says property owners and custodians must take responsibility for ensuring unoccupied buildings are properly secured, regularly inspected and maintained to reduce preventable fire risks.
He adds that stronger awareness and proactive management of vacant structures are critical to reducing avoidable incidents and protecting surrounding properties and communities.
NFA says fires involving vacant buildings are increasing and placing additional pressure on its resources at a time when operational costs have risen due to higher fuel prices.
They say a full investigation will be carried out to determine the cause of the fire.
People are encouraged to report any fire hazards immediately by calling 910.
