Hot spell has Penang on alert for fire risk

Staying ready: Bandar Perda fire station personnel preparing equipment, such as a portable water pump engine and fire beaters, at the station in Bukit Mertajam, Penang. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star

NIBONG TEBAL: In view of the current hot spell, the Fire and Rescue Department is closely monitoring 15 hotspots in Penang which are prone to open burning.

Department director Saadon Mokhtar said it was ready for any eventuality after identifying high-risk areas such as landfills, forests and cemetery grounds.