OF the 28 firefighters on Taveuni, 26 are volunteers and most are unemployed youths who have dedicated their lives to the cause of firefighting.
Headed by Fire Station Officer Peleki Leweniqila, the team has had its share of ups and downs while working with the community to ensure fire safety.
But that has not dampened their spirit as the volunteers have started a house to house visit preaching the importance of fire safety.
Mr Leweniqila labelled his volunteers as a committed team that never complains but enjoys every task assigned to it.
"We believe fire safety begins in our own homes and if people are cautious about the way they handle fires then it should be a thing of the past," he said.
"Taveuni consists of only two permanent fire staff and our house to house campaign has been successful, blessed with dedicated youths who have sacrificed their time and effort to help us in our work throughout the island and the marine zone that come under the island of Taveuni." Mr Leweniqila said last year the island encountered three serious fire incidents compared to only one this year.
"Even though there is not much difference in the decrease, it is an indication that our awareness campaigns are finally hitting home and we are here to stay and to ensure people on the island are safe from fires," he added.
Northern Fire Officer John Pillay said the National Fire Authority management was planning to offer permanent job opportunities for the volunteers on the island in the near future.