.gif)
Fiji’s National Fire Authority has sounded an alert against grass fires, warning people living in grassy areas and sugar cane farms to be careful with ignition material during the current dry period.
The NFA issued the alert after putting out a grass fire in the Tacirua area in Nasinu last night.
A spokesman said the fire had engulfed a large area of grass and tyres in the Tacirua area and was spreading towards the nearby Tacirua Transport Company garage.
The fire would have also threatened nearby homes but was extinguished by firefighters.
The NFA said grass fire incidents have become a concern because they posed a threat to the community.
The authority has urged members of the public to be cautious when burning rubbish during this dry season.
“NFA continues to urge the public and settlements located near grass areas or sugarcane farms to be very careful when handling fire, cigarettes or matches especially during these dry weather conditions,” a statement said.
Much of Fiji is experiencing hot, dry conditions with local weather authorities predicting a three-month drought.
