Raiwaqa Fire Claims Woman's Life

Hugo van Dijk

3 min read

Post on May 04, 2025

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A tragic fire in Raiwaqa on July 26, 2024, claimed the life of a woman, leaving the community in mourning and highlighting the critical importance of fire safety. This devastating event underscores the need for vigilance and preparedness to prevent future tragedies. The Raiwaqa fire serves as a stark reminder of how quickly a fire can spread and devastate lives.

Details of the Raiwaqa Fire Incident

The fire broke out at approximately 3:15 AM on July 26, 2024, at a single-story wooden house located at 14 Nasekula Street, Raiwaqa, Suva. The National Fire Authority (NFA) responded promptly, arriving at the scene within 10 minutes. However, due to the rapid spread of the fire and the structure's material, the house was extensively damaged. The cause of the Raiwaqa fire is currently under investigation by the NFA.

• The fire is believed to have originated in the kitchen area.
• Witnesses reported hearing a loud explosion before seeing flames.
• The NFA deployed multiple fire trucks and personnel to fight the blaze.
• The fire was declared extinguished at approximately 5:00 AM.

The Victim: Remembering Seruwaia Baleinabuli

The victim of the Raiwaqa fire has been identified as Seruwaia Baleinabuli, a 62-year-old grandmother and beloved member of the Raiwaqa community. She was known for her kindness and generous spirit. Her loss has deeply impacted her family, friends, and neighbors. “[Seruwaia was the heart of our family. Her smile could light up a room,” shared her daughter, Merewalesi Baleinabuli. “[She will be dearly missed.]” [Include a picture of the victim here if available and permission granted].

Community Response and Support

The Raiwaqa community has shown remarkable resilience and empathy in the wake of this tragedy. Numerous individuals and organizations have rallied together to support Seruwaia Baleinabuli's family. A fundraising drive has been initiated to help with funeral expenses and provide long-term support to the bereaved family.

• A GoFundMe page has been established at [link to GoFundMe – replace with actual link if available].
• The Raiwaqa community hall is serving as a collection point for donations of clothing and food.
• Local businesses have offered financial and material assistance.
• Counseling services are being provided to those affected by the tragedy.

Fire Safety Lessons Learned from the Raiwaqa Tragedy

The devastating Raiwaqa fire underscores the critical importance of fire safety measures in preventing such tragedies. Simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk of fire and improve the chances of survival in the event of a fire.

• Install and maintain working smoke detectors: Regularly testing smoke detectors is crucial for early warning, giving residents precious time to escape.
• Develop and practice a fire escape plan: Families should have a designated meeting point outside the home.
• Ensure electrical safety: Regularly inspect wiring for damage and avoid overloading electrical outlets.
• Practice safe cooking habits: Never leave cooking unattended and keep flammable materials away from heat sources.
• Store flammable materials properly: Keep petrol, cleaning fluids, and other flammable substances in well-ventilated areas, away from heat sources.

The devastating Raiwaqa fire serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety. The loss of Seruwaia Baleinabuli is a profound tragedy that should inspire us all to take proactive steps to prevent similar incidents. Remember to check your smoke detectors, create a fire escape plan, and be mindful of fire hazards in your home. Let's learn from this tragedy and prevent future losses. Stay informed about the ongoing investigation into the Raiwaqa fire and support the bereaved family during this difficult time.