Community, media play role in inculcating fire prevention
KUCHING: The community and media play a crucial role in inculcating more positive fire prevention measures to prevent loss of lives and properties.
Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department director Khirudin Drahman @ Husaini said this during the Zamalah Wartawan Malaysia 2018 (training of media personnel) organised by Malaysian Press Institute ( MPI) here yesterday. The training was conducted by MPI.
He added the prevention of fire needed cooperation from all stakeholders while the Fire and Rescue Department would continue to work closely with the community to enhance fire safety awareness.
He said 27 longhouse fires have so far been recorded this year compared to 25 in 2017, and 26 in 2016. The longhouses, mostly in northern Sarawak, were 20 to 30 years old.
“About half of the fires were caused by short-circuit, 30 per cent by fire originating from the kitchen and the rest caused by faulty electrical appliances and children playing with firecrackers.
“With continued support from our media partners, more fire safety awareness among the society can be realised within the next five years,” he said.
He also urged all people’s elected representatives to champion the cause of fire safety in their respective constituencies for their greater good.
On a another note, Khirudin said they and other authorities had identified potential assets and schools to be utilised as flood evacuation centres now that it is the monsoon season and heavy rain the norm.