Engaging communities in fire safety: Minister Koya

THE National Fire Authority has engaged with communities to be fire safe by training fire wardens. Minister for Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport, Faiyaz Koya, in his capacity as the acting Minister for Local Government, said many communities around Fiji have expressed their interest in the Community Fire Warden Programme.

Speaking at the commissioning of the Nabouwalu Fire Station last week, Minister Koya said, “The NFA has implemented the Community Fire Warden Programme to reach the 1,093 settlements around Fiji in the next five years”.

“This proactive exercise has received positive feedback from the communities as the NFA is receiving requests to establish Community Fire Wardens in their settlements,” he said.

Minister Koya said these initiatives to expand NFA’s services to as many communities as possible was profound and the establishment of this new Nabouwalu Fire Station will continue to realise the Government’s vision to make essential services accessible to every Fijian.

He also acknowledged the efforts of the fire officers, for their brave and selfless efforts not just during fire emergencies but during natural disasters as well.

“In such emergency situations, the NFA’s primary focus is the safety of lives, for which the fire officers on the ground collaborate with the relevant stakeholders on the safe evacuation.”

“I want to also acknowledge the continuous support provided by the NFA in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. They disinfected and decontaminated vehicles and cargo at the borders,” Minister Koya highlighted.

Furthermore, he said the NFA provided assistance in food distribution around the country during the lockdown period.

The new fire station, which was commissioned by Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, has become the 21st fire station in the country.