Peceli Naviticoko 
A 64-year-old man has died following a house fire in Vunivau, Labasa, early Wednesday morning.
The National Fire Authority responded to the blaze at Paras Point around 3 am, arriving to find the three-bedroom home fully engulfed. Despite efforts to contain the fire, the timber and corrugated iron structure sustained nearly 100 percent damage.
Authorities confirmed the victim was inside at the time, marking the third fire-related fatality this year.
Chief Executive Puamau Sowane says the incident highlights ongoing concerns around electrical fires, which remain one of the leading causes of structural fires in recent years.
“Members of the public are strongly encouraged to routinely check for damaged electrical cords, avoid the use of faulty appliances, and switch off electrical devices when not in use. Additionally, the installation of smoke alarms and the development of a household fire escape plan are critical measures that can greatly enhance safety and save lives.”
Preliminary investigations suggest an electrical fault in the living room may have caused the blaze.
A joint investigation is underway to determine the exact origin.
