PETALING JAYA: Homes are meant to be a safe space, but with increasing fire risks in recent years, it seems many Malaysians have encountered the opposite.
Between 2022 and February this year, a total of 94 deaths due to residential fires were recorded.
According to the Fire and Rescue Department, 32 people died in residential fires last year, marking a 100% increase compared to 16 deaths in 2024.
This year has already seen a grim toll, with 21 deaths reported from home fires between January and February.
“More than half of these cases over the years occurred in terrace houses and between 12am and 7am, when victims were still asleep,” department director-general Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohammad said in an interview.
He said electricity-related sources – including overheating and short circuits – were the biggest contributors, accounting for 57% of fires. Other causes included gas equipment and human carelessness.
“Victims may fail to escape because they are asleep at the time of the incident or may pass out due to carbon monoxide inhalation.
“Many homes also lack warning systems such as smoke detectors. Failing to locate keys during a state of panic can also prove fatal,” he added.
Nor Hisham revealed that 1,690 residential fire cases were recorded last year, with 893 in terrace houses, 165 in flats, and 194 in condominiums and apartments.
The department also inspected 474 small houses, flats, apartments and condominiums, issuing 1,048 fire-hazard abatement notices for non-compliance with safety requirements.
Common problems included poorly maintained or malfunctioning fire extinguishers, alarms, hose reels, and fire pumps. Blocked exit routes and unauthorised renovations that increased fire risks were also detected.
“Make sure exit routes are clear. Do not place items such as flower pots, shoe racks, or motorbikes in corridors or stairwells,” Nor Hisham said, noting that narrow exits can delay authorities and hinder residents’ escape.
He also highlighted the importance of electrical and kitchen safety.
“Avoid overloading extension plugs and ensure old wiring is replaced by qualified contractors. Never leave cooking unattended and make sure gas hoses are in proper working condition,” he said.
Nor Hisham recommended equipping every home with at least one dry powder fire extinguisher and a smoke detector to improve safety.
In the event of a fire, he advised the public to remain calm and avoid lifts if exits are blocked by flames or thick smoke, as power failures could trap occupants.
“Find a safe room, preferably with windows facing the main road, so that first responders can see you. Stuff the bottom of door openings with a wet cloth or towel to prevent smoke from entering.
“Stay low and crawl if smoke comes in, as cleaner air is always near the floor,” he said.
Victims should also signal for help through open windows.
“Wave a bright-coloured cloth or use your phone’s flashlight to grab attention.
“Where possible, call 999 immediately and provide an accurate location, including your unit number and floor,” Nor Hisham advised.
