Firefighters with the National Fire Authority (NFA) have been thanked for their service while being urged to take care of their health and safety.

The call has come from NFA Chief Executive Officer Puamau Sowane as the Authority celebrated International Firefighters Day 2025 at Suva, Nadi and Labasa fire stations today, even though the day officially falls on Sunday.

In Suva, as with other stations, the event started with a parade inspected by Mr Sowane before the ceremonial laying of wreaths by Mr Sowane and Chief Fire Officer Qionilau Moceitai.

A church service was then held before and address by Mr Sowane in which he paid tribute to officers, past and present, especially the fallen in the line of duty. 

“Today we mark a significant day for firefighters all over the world. International Firefighters Day is a time when we pause to acknowledge your bravery, tireless service, and the incredible sacrifices you make to protect lives and property,” he said.

“To each one of you – thank you. Your work is not just a job; it is a calling, and we honour that today. 

“This day is not just about celebration; it is also about recognition – of the risks you face every day and of the loved ones you leave behind each time you respond to an emergency. “

Mr Sowane spoke of the emerging threats and risks faced by firefighters.

“There are inherent dangers posed by things such as lithium batteries in electric vehicles as well as how you do your work,” he said. 

“In many parts of the world, firefighters do not enter a burning building if they do not have breathing apparatus. These are things you should be aware of.

“Firefighting is one of the most dangerous professions in the world. Globally, thousands of firefighters are injured or killed each year in the line of duty, many due to heart conditions, accidents during rescues, and exposure to hazardous environments.

“In our own ranks here at the NFA, we have lost 26 firefighters since 2007. More than half of these deaths – 14 – were caused by heart attacks or heart failure. The others were due to conditions such as kidney failure, diabetes, pneumonia, and asthma. Since 2006, five officers have been retired on medical grounds, mostly due to diabetes-related limb amputations. These are not just statistics; they are powerful reminders of why health and fitness are critical for our firefighters. You are needed – not only by the NFA but also by your families and communities.”

The NFA CEO said it had been globally the number of people wishing to join the fire service was dwindling because of the inherent health and injury risks involved.

“However, in Fiji, we have witnessed that it is the opposite. When we advertise to recruit 30 or even 90 firefighters, we received thousands of applications. So, that is a good sign for us,” Mr Sowane said.  

“But today is not only about grief. It is also a celebration – of progress, growth, and excellence. Our organization is making great strides. We have signed Memorandums of Understanding with the Queensland Fire Department of Queensland, Australia, the National Fire Agency of Taiwan and the Samoa Fire & Emergency Services Authority.

“These partnerships support the technical training and development of our new Paramedic and Health Services Department. Just this morning, ten paramedics returned from two weeks of training in Taiwan. Another group will depart shortly.

“We are also preparing for Urban Search and Rescue and Swift Water Rescue training next month, along with inter-agency collaboration with Disaster Organizations and other key organizations on disaster preparedness and response.

“We are moving forward. We expect the delivery of six new ambulances to support our expanding medical response services.

“In all of this, our service reputation, skills, and knowledge all depend on one factor – our brave firefighters. To all our firefighters – you are the heart of this organization. Your courage, commitment, and sacrifice are the reasons we celebrate this day. You respond to every call, no matter the hour, no matter the danger – because you care, because you serve.

“On behalf of the Board, Management, and the people of Fiji – thank you. Be safe, be strong, and know that we honour you today and every day.”

The officers then accorded a traditional sevusevu for the church reverend who led the church service before festivities began.

 

Mr Puamau Sowane

Chief Executive Officer

National Fire Authority of Fiji

 

 

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