IPOH: Outdoor activities such as camping during the current inter-monsoon season should be avoided because of the increased risks of falling trees, flash floods, and landslides, says the Perak Fire and Rescue Department.
Its director, Sayani Saidon, said the current transition period from the southwest monsoon to the northeast monsoon, which lasts from September to early November, typically brings heavy rain, strong winds and storms.
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“Camping in forest reserves is dangerous, as strong winds can cause branches or even entire trees to fall on campsites.
“Those camping or picnicking near rivers face the risk of sudden water surges that can sweep people away before they can escape,” she said when contacted yesterday.
Sayani said that highland areas, particularly the slopes, are also not safe, as prolonged rain could loosen the soil and increase the chances of landslides.
The department, she said, has identified several hotspot areas that are prone to flash floods, storms and minor tornadoes, where fallen trees and strong winds could destroy property.
“Residents staying in areas prone to flash floods should take precautions by securing personal belongings, especially important documents and medicines, and ensuring that elderly family members are not left alone at home.
“If you must leave them behind, inform your neighbours or the village head so that they can assist in an emergency,” she said.
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Sayani also reminded the public to be alert to warning signs of possible water surges when they are near rivers or waterfalls.
These signs could be dark skies upstream, thunder, rising water levels, muddy water or floating branches and debris, she said.
“In such situations, leave the riverbank immediately and move to a safe area,” she added.
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State housing and local government committee chairman Sandrea Ng reminded glamping and camping operators in Perak that their sites fall under the provisions of the Perak Hotel Enactment 2023 and Hotel Regulations 2024, which require them to be registered with local councils and to comply with basic safety requirements.
She said these include fire safety measures, proper site planning, and, in some cases, structural safety reports.
“While licensing covers operational standards, risks arising from extreme weather, such as heavy rain, strong winds, falling trees or landslides, fall under the responsibility of technical agencies such as the Malaysian Meteorological Department, the Irrigation and Drainage Department and the Forestry Department,” she said.
