THE first reported house fire of 2026 has destroyed a three-bedroom property in Tacirua, prompting the National Fire Authority (NFA) to urge the public to remain vigilant and practise fire safety.
The fire occurred on Saturday afternoon along Princes Road, opposite the Tacirua Bus Garage.
In a statement, NFA acting chief executive officer Joel Israel said fire crew from the Suva Fire Station responded immediately, and upon arrival found the three-bedroom lean-to house fully engulfed in flames.
“They used multiple hose lines and water supplies from fire appliances to bring the blaze under control,” he said.
“The fire was fully extinguished by 4.22pm. With a floor space of 396 square metres, the house sustained 99 per cent damage.”
Mr Israel said no injuries were reported.
“Firefighters successfully prevented the fire from spreading to an adjoining house.
“The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, and investigations are underway.”
Meanwhile, earlier on the same day in Tuatua, Labasa, firefighters responded to a vehicle fire incident at around 8am.
Mr Israel said upon arrival, firefighters discovered a vehicle that had veered off the road and overturned in a nearby compound.
“The vehicle was carrying a family of five travelling to Nabouwalu to catch an inter-island ferry to Natovi.”
“Bystanders managed to rescue the occupants and transport them to Labasa Hospital before the fire crew arrived.”
He said firefighters secured the scene by switching off the vehicle’s ignition and later handed the matter over to the Fiji Police Force for further investigation.
