106 Fijian families lose homes in fires so far this year

SUVA -- A total of 106 families have lost their homes in fires so far this year in Fiji and the majority of blazes were caused by electrical faults.

Fiji's National Fire Authority (NFA) said on Friday that several of these fires could have been avoided if precautions had been taken earlier.

NFA Chair John O'Connor reiterated that safety is everyone's responsibility especially during this festive season.

He said firefighting is very effective and safe when the NFA is provided with information early.

O'Connor urged Fijians to call 910 to get help from the NFA.

Chief Fire Officer Qionilau Moceitai said the majority of incidents this year were caused by electrical faults.

There were 158 structural blazes in 2018, of which 145 were house fires.