THE revelation that a newly-renovated house at Hibiscus Lane along Bryce St, Raiwaqa, Suva, was destroyed by a fire yesterday should serve as a warning for us all.
Fires are powerful enough to destroy homes.
That’s when years of hard work, sacrifice, love and attention can go up in smoke, in minutes.
It leaves a feeling of anger, frustration, uncertainty, doubt and overwhelming helplessness for those impacted by fires.
Years of care, comfort in knowing there is a home, can be destroyed in minutes leaving families emotionally drained.
This is why fire safety is critical.
It is why awareness is important. Being proactive, and vigilant are critical elements that must be highlighted, and placed on a very high pedestal.
Police also confirmed there were no casualties. As investigations continue to determine the cause of the fire, we are reminded about safety issues.
Accidents happen because we allow them to. However, they can be prevented. But that means we have to be proactive, and vigilant.
It means being aware of fire safety tips. It means keeping abreast of developments in terms of safety in various spheres of our lives.
Police have always urged homeowners to be vigilant. Following structural fires early in June in the Western Division last year, Police spokeswoman Ana Naisoro called on families to be vigilant. We keep saying people should be proactive and vigilant.
We say this every time a fire destroys a home. We are emotional when deaths happen. That’s when we raise the issue of fire safety. We must embrace fire safety. We must be above complacency and be catalysts for change. So let’s discuss this issue.
Let’s address it at all levels of society. We’ve said this before … let’s pay attention to safety issues. Let’s make this a topic of discussion, let’s learn to appreciate and value this.
We must pay attention to detail and do the little things that aid in fire safety. We have to get rid of complacency and learn to appreciate fire safety tips.
We should be doing this for the sake of our loved ones and for ourselves. Let’s be aware of danger spots, from cooking areas, where we keep mosquito coils, to how we use electrical appliances.
Let’s check on electrical wiring in our homes, and get qualified electricians involved. Let’s understand and be aware of hot spots in our homes.
Be aware of contingency plans in the face of disasters. Let’s work out escape routes and what to do when there is a fire. Every member of the home should be aware, and alert.
Let’s stay safe and embrace fire safety tips. We have been warned.
