Stay alert: A short circuit is believed to have caused a fire that resulted in the deaths of five family members in Melaka. — Photo courtesy of Bomba Melaka
PETALING JAYA: Fire safety is paramount, as Malaysia experiences hotter and drier weather from March onwards due to the end of the northeast monsoon.
The Fire and Rescue Department and interest groups call on Malaysians to equip their homes with at least one fire extinguisher for emergencies. Such items are relatively inexpensive and can prevent small fires from turning into infernos that lead to devastating losses.
A recent tragic fire in Jasin, Melaka, which claimed the lives of a family of five, underscores the importance of preparedness, with authorities urging the public to remain vigilant.
A short circuit is believed to have caused the fire that engulfed the semi-brick and wooden house.
Selangor Fire and Rescue Department director Wan Md Nazali Wan Ismail said every home should have a fire extinguisher, smoke detectors and fire blankets. He recommended the ABC Dry Powder fire extinguisher, which is effective against solids, flammable liquids and electrical fires.
“While foam extinguishers are suitable for oil fires, they shouldn’t be used on electrical fires. In kitchens, fire blankets are invaluable,” he said.
To avoid counterfeit products, he said consumers should purchase from suppliers registered with the Fire and Rescue Department, ensure it has SIRIM certification, check for serial numbers and expiry dates, and be wary of unusually low prices.
Wan Md Razali also advised installing smoke detectors in each bedroom and living area, equipping kitchens with fire extinguishers and blankets, and educating family members on emergency procedures.
“Regular electrical checks and fire drills are essential, and forming community fire teams can further enhance safety. Good preparedness can save lives and reduce the risk of serious fires,” he said.
Chemical health risk assessor Tan Tiong Ping, who is registered with the Occupational Safety and Health Department, said both carbon dioxide and powder extinguishers can be used to put out fires caused by a short circuit or overheated device. He added that extinguishers are not difficult to use, provided that people follow their simple instructions.
For landed property and high- rises, extinguishers should be placed near the main electrical panel and in the kitchen, Tan said.
Wee Chew Kiat, whose company makes firefighting equipment, said a one kg fire extinguisher costs about RM100.
As more households use battery-operated devices, Wee said having an extinguisher is an essential safety measure.
“Also, homes with gardens tend to have higher fire risks due to dry leaves and ignition sources like cigarette butts,” said the CEO of Steel Recon Industries Sdn Bhd.
Another manufacturer of safety equipment, Wong Kee Wei, said that having a fire extinguisher “can mean the difference between a minor incident and a devastating loss”, as fires can escalate rapidly.Wong also cautioned against buying and relying on a new product called “fire extinguisher balls” or “fire balls”.
These fist-sized balls, sold online, claim to be able to extinguish fires simply by being thrown into them. However, the Malaysian authorities have not certified their efficacy.
Wong said while they are useful for small fires in unattended areas, they shouldn’t replace fire extinguishers, which offer greater control and effectiveness.
“Every home should have at least one fire extinguisher as part of a comprehensive fire safety plan,” said Wong, CEO of Safetyware Group Berhad.
“Avoid unusually low-priced products, as counterfeit or substandard extinguishers may fail during an emergency,” he said.
