Inadequate spacing between houses ‘costly’

The National Fire Authority (NFA) has pointed out that insufficient spacing between houses in informal settlements is a key factor contributing to the rapid spread of fires. This concern was raised by National Fire Authority CEO Puamau Sowane following a fire in Cunningham Stage 1, Suva, on Saturday morning, which destroyed three houses.

Mr. Sowane expressed his disappointment that fires continue to occur despite the Fire Authority’s ongoing outreach and awareness campaigns. He emphasized, "This fire occurred as our children are preparing to return to school next week, and in densely populated areas like informal settlements, houses are built very close together."

Mr. Sowane further explained, "There are no standards for spacing between houses in informal settlements, which is why fires can easily and quickly spread to neighboring houses. Fortunately, no lives were lost in the incident." He urged homeowners to take fire safety precautions, including storing flammable materials properly, using non-flammable surfaces for lit mosquito coils, and extinguishing candles before sleeping.

Mr. Sowane also appealed to the public to dial 910 in the event of a fire or emergency, so that firefighters have a chance to save lives and property. "He added that the fire department is investigating the cause of the Cunningham fire."

Regarding the details of the Cunningham fire, the first house that caught fire was completely destroyed, with estimated losses of $60,000. The second house suffered 80% to 90% structural damage, also with estimated losses of $60,000. Both houses were unoccupied at the time of the incident. The third house suffered 100% structural damage, valued at $120,000. There were four adults and a one-year-old baby inside the house when the fire broke out, but they managed to escape safely.