THE National Fire Authority (NFA) is urging the public to use available resources to control fire incidents in their respective communities.
This follows an increase in cane and grass fires recorded in the north so far this year.
Divisional fire officer northern John Pillay yesterday said resources like creeks and rivers were available in places where some fire incidents usually occurred but people still banked on NFA’s assistance.
“At least people should make an effort to use water from creeks and rivers while waiting for us to prevent fire from further destroying properties,” Mr Pillay said.
“Controlling fires should be a bilateral effort between NFA and the community in our bid to control such mishaps.”
The assistance from the community, Mr Pillay said would greatly save time and effort of officers. “When people take the first step, fires can be controlled and victims can still save some of their stuff,” he said.
“While responding to fire calls, officers usually notice the resources nearby and they urge people to make use of it while waiting for their assistance.”
He said people, especially cane farmers, should also be mindful of burning rubbish because it could easily spread to other places.
“Some people unintentionally burn their rubbish and they don’t realise that the fire could easily spread because of the wind,” he said.
Last month, officers in Labasa attended to 21 grass and cane fires.
“We will continue to increase our awareness programs so people can have a vivid idea of how to control fires in their own communities,” Mr Pillay said.