IPOH: The public has been reminded to refrain from activities that could spark fires during the current hot weather.
Perak Fire and Rescue Department director Datuk Sayani Saidon said that with lesser rainfall in the past few weeks in the state, the people have to be alert at all times.
"Those who smoke are urged to not throw their cigarette butts around.
"We also call on parents to keep an eye on children to stop them from playing with fire," she told a press conference after the department's annual gathering at Meru Raya here on Friday (Feb 6).
It has been reported that lower rainfall, as well as drought in some parts of Perak, have caused water levels at dams in the northern region to recede.
Sayani said the department received an average of 50 calls a day related to open burning.
"These incidents occur in open areas, bushes, farms and estates.
"The hot weather can cause fire to spread quickly," she said.
She added that landfills are another location at risk of fire.
"There have been cases in other states but no cases so far in Perak.
"If a fire occurs at these locations, it could take a long time to put out because of the vast area and the distance (from the nearest fire stations).
"There may also be no nearby water sources to use in fighting the fire.
"Prolonged fires can cause air pollution and incur a lot of cost to us," she added.
