IPOH: A new standard operating procedure for rescuers will be used in the upcoming monsoon season to ensure smoother operations, says Perak Fire and Rescue Department director Azmi Osman.
"We have about 1,250 officers and personnel in Perak, along with over 1,200 volunteers who are trained to assist during the monsoon season.
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"The new SOP includes a specific response time for officers or personnel who are not at their stations or areas when a distress call is made," he told reporters after attending the department's monthly gathering at their headquarters in Meru Raya, here on Wednesday (Sept 14).
Azmi said the department's personnel will undergo special training as part of their preparation for the upcoming monsoon season.
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"Currently several of our assets have undergone some maintenance to make sure that they can function well.
"We have a total of 53 boats, 15 lorries, and 49 vehicles that will be used during the operation.
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"We will also conduct research at high-risk areas such as Teluk Intan and Kampung Gajah as well as areas with water reservoirs and drainage areas like Simpang Pulai, Sungai Siput, Taiping, and Pengkalan Hulu to ensure that we are well prepared for anything," he said, adding that both officers and personnel will be working in full force depending on the situation.
"We used to allow only 20% of our workforce to apply for leave, but if the situation continues (to be serious), no one will be allowed to go on leave," he said.
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On Sept 7, the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) announced that heavy rains are expected to occur during the northeast monsoon, which usually starts in mid-November and continues until next March.
Separately, Azmi added that the department is also considering adding more landing points for rescue helicopters to land.
"We do have a few locations along Gerik heading to Jeli, Kelantan. Now our focus is on finding new locations at Simpang Pulai," he said.
