Man baffled as fire claims house, wife’s life
Losing your house and wife in a fire incident is a tragic experience no individual should ever go through.
These were the sentiments shared by Hari San, the husband of the deceased, Sara Wati, who lost her life in a fire that razed their five-bedroom wooden and corrugated iron house in Naverea, Savusavu on Thursday night.
Mr San never thought that he would be in mourning at a time when the country celebrates Christmas.
“It only took 20 minutes for the fire to completely engulf the house, destroy our happiness, hard work and take the life of my dearest wife,” he said.
The emotional 66-year-old said his wife was irreplaceable, however, they would have to pick up the pieces again and move on in life.
Mr San was baffled at the incident and confirmed he did not suspect anyone who could have started the fire.
“I have a good relationship with the community and the incident has left a big void in my life,” he said.
Mr San on the night of the incident had gone to pick up his youngest daughter from her workplace in Savusavu Town, however, he did not realise that it was the last time he would see his house and wife again.
“When I reached home, firefighters were trying to contain the fire, but, in the end, nothing could be saved,” he said.
The father-of-three children is requesting urgent assistance either monetary or building materials to rebuild both his life and house again.
The family is now staying at their neighbour’s home in Naverea.
For people willing to assist the family, Mr San can be contacted on phone: at 990172.
NFA
The Savusavu Fire Station was alerted of the incident at 8.55pm on Thursday.
Upon arrival at the scene, the fire team found the five-bedroom wooden and corrugated iron house fully engulfed in flames.
The NFA personnel managed to extinguish the fire, but it was unfortunate that the body of a woman was found.
It is understood the victim suffered from a stroke and was partially immobile and alone at home at the time of the fire incident.
The NFA will continue with its investigations to ascertain the cause of the fire.
Advice
NFA chief executive officer Puamau Sowane said they were saddened by the loss of a life in the fire and greatly sympathised with the family on their loss.
“It is sad to hear that a life has been lost in the incident during this festive season,” Mr Sowane said.
“We urge every Fijian to be more vigilant and keep a watch on their families, friends and neighbours to avoid such mishaps.”