Ensure fire-fi��htin�� systems in hi��h-rise buildin��s in ��ood condition, says D-G

PUTRAJAYA: Owners and occupants of high-rise buildings including residences and offices need to ensure that fire-fighting systems on each floor are in good condition and regularly maintained, said Fire and Rescue Department directorgeneral Datuk Seri Wan Mohd Nor Ibrahim.

“Reminders to owners and occupants of high-rise buildings to maintain and inspect the firefighting system have been issued many times, but many people take them lightly until there is a fire,” he said.

Commenting on the fire at a public housing apartment in Precinct 16 here on Sunday night after visiting the scene yesterday, he said the hydrant on the fourth floor of the 15- storey apartment was damaged and water from the fire-engine was used.

“Fortunately, the fire occurred in a unit located on the fourth floor, so the fire- engine's pump could reach up to the unit,” he said, adding that the pump from the fire- engine can only reach up to the 10th floor of a building.

In the incident at about 9.15pm Sunday night, the unit occupied by a staff of the Accountant General's Department was razed in a fire.

During the incident, the 58year-old aunt of the occupant who was alone in the house, managed to save herself with the help of neighbours.

The occupant, his wife and child were out at the time.

Wan Mohd Nor said, initial investigation found that the fire was due to numerous electrical connection resulting in sparking which led to the casing of the electrical connection to melt before spreading. — Bernama