A swift response by firefighters prevented a kitchen fire at a Lautoka restaurant from developing into a much larger commercial disaster this morning.
The National Fire Authority (NFA) received an emergency call at 8:05 am from the Lautoka Police Station reporting a fire at the Downtown Superfast Restaurant on Naviti Street. A crew of 14 on-duty and off-duty firefighters from the Lautoka Fire Station arrived within five minutes, finding the kitchen fully engulfed.
Firefighters deployed multiple hose lines and secured a nearby hydrant to ensure a continuous water supply. Their coordinated efforts brought the blaze under control by 8:45 am, containing it before it could spread to adjacent businesses.
The fire extensively damaged 80 percent of the kitchen and part of the structure, resulting in an estimated $35,000 loss in building and contents. No injuries were reported.
Initial findings suggest the fire ignited while a cook attempted to light a gas appliance. While the flames rapidly spread through the commercial kitchen, which contained gas cylinders, frying pans, and utensils, the cook escaped safely.
NFA Chief Executive Officer Sowane Puamau commended the crew’s rapid, professional response.
“This incident serves as a reminder of how quickly a small kitchen fire can escalate into a major emergency, particularly in commercial premises,” Mr. Puamau said.
“Had firefighters not arrived promptly, the fire could have spread to neighbouring businesses.”
He urged food businesses to regularly maintain LPG equipment and train staff, reminding the public to call 910 immediately in an emergency.
Investigators are working to determine the exact cause.
