Earlier this evening, a fire broke out at the distribution box serving Brother Store and Stret Price at Freshwater, Port Vila. The fire raised concerns as emergency services took time to arrive, with UNELCO arriving to assist in controlling the situation and preventing the fire from spreading into the buildings.

This incident follows a fire just last week that burned down a dock belonging to Martin Company Ltd at Tebakor, prompting many to question the frequency of such incidents in Port Vila.

What Caused the Fire?

An electrician who attended the scene explained that the fire started inside the distribution box due to loose connections sparking under heavy load, which melted plastic components and ignited the fire.

He noted that some customers, when experiencing power issues, often replace blown fuses with stronger ones that do not trip easily, believing it will solve power interruptions. However, this practice can hide underlying problems such as loose or poorly connected wiring, allowing sparks to occur under heavy load and creating heat that can eventually start a fire.

The electrician’s advice is clear:

• Avoid overloading circuits beyond their designed capacity.
• Do not replace fuses with higher-rated ones to avoid tripping, as fuses are designed to protect your wiring and property.
• Ensure wiring is tidy, secure, and regularly inspected by qualified electricians to prevent sparking and overheating.

Community Reaction

The fire sparked lively discussions online, with many expressing:

• Frustration at delayed emergency response during fire incidents in the city.
• Concerns about repeated fires occurring near fuel stations, leading some to question whether these incidents are merely coincidental.
• Calls for businesses to keep accessible fire extinguishers and train staff in their proper use.
• Reminders that water should never be used on electrical fires, with many calling for community education on basic fire safety practices.

Others viewed the repeated fires as a reminder of the need for family connection and reflection on deeper societal issues impacting community safety and preparedness.

Why This Matters

This incident highlights:

• The critical importance of electrical safety in both residential and commercial spaces.
• The need for routine inspections and proper maintenance of wiring, load management, and fuse ratings.
• That fire preparedness begins with prevention, not only with emergency response.
• The need for community awareness and responsible practices to reduce fire risks in Port Vila.

---

Takeaway

The distribution box fire at the Brother Store was preventable. By respecting electrical load limits, using the correct fuses, and maintaining organised, safe wiring, businesses and households can significantly reduce the risk of similar incidents, protecting property and lives.

While emergency services remain essential in disaster response, the first defence against fires starts with everyday decisions we make to ensure electrical safety and readiness in our homes and workplaces.

---

Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on public reports, observations at the scene, and comments from an attending electrician. While care has been taken to provide accurate details, the cause of the fire remains subject to official investigation by relevant authorities. Readers are encouraged to apply electrical safety practices and seek professional advice from licensed electricians for inspections or repairs. This article is for public awareness and educational purposes only and is not intended to assign blame to any party.