FOR L/Kpl Ariffuddin Ahmad, attending a National Day safety programme at the Jalan Perak Fire and Rescue Department in George Town, Penang, was more than a weekend family outing.
The programme provided an opportunity for them to learn how to better respond to an emergency.
The 32-year-old attached to the crime prevention and community safety department at the George Town police headquarters brought his wife Siti Fatimah Humairah Yusof, 31, and daughters Nur Aleesa, five, and Nur Aleeya, four.
He said he wanted to learn more about firefighting and first aid.
“This programme gives the public, including young children, important exposure to what they should do in an emergency.”
He even tried on the firefighting gear, which gave him a better appreciation of the conditions firefighters work in.
“After putting on the uniform, I realised how thick and hot it is.
“It really showed me the tough conditions firefighters work in.”
Meanwhile, Siti Fatimah learnt how to put out a kitchen fire and handle other emergencies at home.
Ariffuddin said such knowledge could help people keep minor emergencies from becoming worse.
“If people know what to do before the fire department arrives, they can stop a fire from spreading or help someone who has fainted.
“They are less likely to panic,” he said.
Another participant was Nor Azimah Redhwan, 41, whose husband, firefighter Abdul Yazid Johari, 48, is stationed at the department.
Accompanied by her seven-year-old son Mohammad Nafis, she took part in demonstrations on how to deal with kitchen fires, including burning cooking oil and a gas leak.
“My husband taught me basic firefighting skills at home but this gave me a chance to refresh my knowledge and learn more.”
Participants were taught never to pour water over burning cooking oil and how to smother the flames with a damp cloth.
They were advised to keep flammable materials away from the cooking area and what to do if there is a gas leak.
Nor Azimah said the training gave her greater confidence as her husband is not always at home.
“It is important that I know how to deal with a fire myself and safely use whatever is available,” she said.
Mohammad Nafis enjoyed the hands-on activities, describing them as exciting and educational.
The programme included a CPR demonstration and display of fire engines, operational equipment and protective gear.
Senior fire officer I Muhammad Jusoh said the knowledge of using a fire extinguisher can save a family.
“Today we learn an emergency evacuation plan. Tomorrow it may save hundreds of lives.”
He urged the public to make safety a daily responsibility at home, schools, places of worship and workplaces.
“Safety does not belong to firefighters alone, it is the responsibility of every Malaysian,” Muhammad said.
He said every household should have an emergency plan, a smoke detector and at least one person who knows how to use a fire extinguisher.
“A fire can be extinguished and buildings can be rebuilt, but a life lost can never be replaced.”
