Firecracker safety urged this festive season, says fire dept


GEORGE TOWN: This Chinese New Year, you may set off firecrackers and fireworks but be mindful of dry patches of grass which could easily ignite and cause a fire.

State Fire and Rescue Department operations assistant director Khairy Sulaiman said the two fires at Chinese cemetery grounds in Batu Lanchang and Batu Gantong earlier this month is cause for concern.

He warned that dry grass can quickly trigger a blaze that may spread uncontrollably.

“It took us a while to prevent the fires from spreading. Parents should ensure their children understand the dangers involved and closely supervise them. If something goes wrong, it can escalate quickly.

“Homemade firecrackers are strictly prohibited. Also, make sure to have a fire extinguisher nearby when setting off firecrackers,” he said when contacted yesterday.

Khairy said while setting off firecrackers is a customary way to celebrate Chinese New Year, safety precautions must be a priority during the festive season.

He said all 20 fire stations in the state will be on standby for fire and other emergency situations during the festive period.

He advised those planning to leave their homes to make sure that all electrical appliances are switched off.

Khairy also said 42 personnel in three teams will be on duty round-the-clock at the Sungai Dua toll plaza from Jan 28 to Feb 2.

Meanwhile, state police chief Comm Datuk Hamzah Ahmad said police will step up security measures for the festive period, adding that personnel will also be assigned for crowd and traffic control.

He said those planning to leave their houses for several days should inform their neighbours.

On Jan 16, the Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department announced that Ops Selamat 23 in conjunction with the Chinese New Year celebration will be held from Jan 28 to Feb 2.

The operation will focus on six major traffic offences – such as exceeding speed limit, unauthorised use of the emergency lane, overtaking on double solid lines – which are contributors to road accidents during festive seasons.

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