Shopping malls, shops in highest fire risk list
Published on: Sunday, May 19, 2019
By: Lagatah Toyos
TAWAU: Shopping malls and shops are among premises with the highest risk of fire reported within three years from 2016. Sabah Fire and Rescue Director Kamarulzaman Malik Abdullah said the increase in risk was due to population congesting and stockpiling in areas such as stairways by owners of premises.
He said inspections on dormitories, hotels and halls recorded the lowest risk as many of these premises came with Fire Certificates that were still valid, in addition to the premises having a well- maintained fire system.
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According to record, a total of 157 inspections covering shopping malls or shops (109), dormitories and hotels (27) and halls (21) were made in conjunction with the Hari Raya Aidilfitri in 2016.
As for 2017, a total of 163 inspections were conducted, involving shopping malls or shops (118), dormitories and hotels (10) and halls (35), while last year a total of 250 inspections were done on shopping malls and shops (166), dormitories and hotels (42) and halls (42).
He said this in a statement at the launching of the State-level Fire and Rescue Tawau Zone Fire and Road Safety Awareness Campaign at a kiosk station at Mile 4, Jalan Apas, here, Saturday, in conjunction with the Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2019 celebration.
The ceremony was officiated by Deputy Chief Minister cum Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew and attended by senior officers from the department.
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Kamarulzaman said the programme was aimed at raising public awareness on the dangers of fire.
He said during inspections, officers will issue a Form A Notice to premises owners should they detect fire hazards, while premises with a proper fire system will be given appreciation letters for not having fire hazards.
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In addition, he said, errant premises owners can also be compounded under the Fire Services Act 1988.
On that note, he reminded everyone to be cautious and take serious note on the need for fire safety as well as road safety awareness.
On another development, he said the department has made early preparations for the festive season such as reviewing and updating pre-fire and contingency planning for areas with risk of fire.
He said they will also conduct inspections to ensure fire equipment are in good condition.
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