The Tonga Fire and Emergency Services (TFES) is tasked with safeguarding lives and property across the Kingdom of Tonga. Its core functions include fire suppression, rescue operations, and disaster response services, making it a critical agency in times of natural disasters, accidents, and fires. Established under the Tonga Fire and Emergency Services Act 2014, TFES also conducts fire safety education and prevention programs to reduce the risks of fire-related incidents and raise public awareness.

Tonga’s vulnerability to natural hazards, such as cyclones and earthquakes, necessitates a well-organised response unit like TFES. The department works closely with the National Emergency Management Office (NEMO) to ensure preparedness and effective disaster risk management. It also addresses the increasing challenges posed by climate change, which intensifies the frequency and severity of natural disasters, putting additional pressure on emergency services.

TFES’s activities align with the Tonga Strategic Development Framework II (TSDF II), which prioritises resilience against climate change and ensuring public safety. In addition to fire services, the department is responsible for emergency medical responses and handling hazardous materials (HazMat), further broadening its scope to ensure comprehensive community protection.

You will be able to use the Citizen Portal (coming soon) to submit a request or query to the Tonga Fire and Emergency Service (TFES). Whether you need an inspection for a new business, a fire safety review, or advice on compliance with regulations, the system allows you to conveniently schedule a meeting. This system is designed to improve transparency, responsiveness and overall public service by allowing citizens to submit their feedback and track progress of their ticket.

You can submit a request or query for the following services:

• Fire Safety Inspections: Mandatory for businesses to comply with fire safety regulations and obtain licenses.
• Building Compliance Checks: For new constructions or renovations to ensure fire prevention systems are in place.
• Advice on Hazardous Materials: Guidance on proper storage and handling of flammable or dangerous substances.
• Public Event Safety: Inspections to ensure fire safety measures are adequate for public gatherings or events.
• Residential Fire Safety Consultation: To help homeowners improve fire prevention in their homes.

You will be able to book an appointment with TFES through the Citizen Portal, coming soon. A fire safety inspector or disaster preparedness team, helping to maintain compliance and safety standards across the Kingdom. People who may be interested in booking an appointment are detailed below:

• Business Owners: To ensure their commercial premises meet the required fire safety regulations, business owners can book inspections as part of the licensing process or before opening to the public.
• Property Developers: Developers who are building or renovating properties will need to schedule a fire safety inspection to ensure compliance with Tonga’s building and fire safety standards.
• Event Organisers: For those planning public events, fire safety inspections ensure that venues have adequate emergency exits, fire extinguishers and an approved emergency plan in place.
• School Administrators: Schools and educational institutions can schedule disaster preparedness training and inspections to ensure that fire safety equipment is functioning and that staff and students are prepared for emergencies.
• Government Offices: Public institutions may require regular inspections and fire drills to comply with national safety guidelines and maintain safe working environments for employees and the public.

All new job vacancies within the Tonga Fire and Emergency Services (TFES) will be posted soon in the Job Vacancy Portal. This is the primary place for anyone interested in public service roles to find new opportunities. The portal will provide access to job listings across all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies in Tonga’s government. While job postings may also appear on the specific organization’s own websites or their official Facebook page, it is highly recommended to check the Vacancy Portal.

• Tonga Fire and Emergency Services Act: Defines the responsibilities and powers of the Department, including fire prevention, suppression, and emergency response.
• Building Code (Fire Safety): Regulates fire safety standards for commercial and residential buildings, ensuring compliance with safety measures for the protection of occupants.
• Emergency Management Act: Outlines national preparedness and response protocols for disasters, detailing the roles and responsibilities of key agencies like TFES.
• Fire Safety Regulations: Provides specific guidelines on fire alarms, extinguishers, and exits for public buildings, ensuring public safety in case of emergencies.
• Occupational Health and Safety Act (Fire Regulations): Ensures workplaces are equipped with fire safety measures, regulating the installation of fire alarms and extinguishers in workplaces.