A fire destroyed a three-flat home in Nadawa, Nasinu, on Tuesday night, leaving five people homeless, including a woman who was treated for injuries.
The fire broke out at around 7:45pm, and by the time firefighters reached Urau Place, it had spread extensively throughout the timber and corrugated iron house.
While one woman was treated for minor injuries at the scene and later discharged, the house sustained extensive damage.
Authorities estimate the loss at around $180,000, with over 90 per cent of the structure destroyed.
Firefighters were also able to prevent the fire from spreading to three neighbouring homes.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
In a statement, National Fire Authority (NFA) Chief Executive Officer Puamau Sowane urged property owners to regularly assess the condition of their homes, especially electrical wiring in houses over 20 years old.
“After 20 years of constant use, electrical wiring can degrade, leading to potential safety hazards,” Sowane said. “The NFA is urging homeowners to be vigilant in this respect and also ensure that flammable materials are stored in a safe space.”
He also reminded residents to store flammable materials safely and to contact the NFA immediately in the event of a fire by dialling the toll-free emergency number, 910.
