BEAUFORT: Two hectares of forest was destroyed in a fire that broke out in Kg Maraba, here, recently.
Fire and Rescue Station Chief Muhammad Hasbullah Nenggok said firefighters were deployed to the scene after receiving a call at 11.12am.
“The fire on the private land was started by its owner who called us for help after the fire went out of control,” he said.
Firefighters used fire beaters to extinguish the fire and prevent it from spreading.
On that note, he advised the public to avoid open burning activities during the dry season, as they could spiral out of control and spread.
“We are afraid that the fire will spread to other farms and cause huge losses, in addition to the impact on the environment,” he said.
He said open burning activities is an offence under the Environmental Quality Act 1974, with a fine of up to RM2,000 for each offence if convicted.
In addition, there is a fine of up to RM500, 000 or jail not exceeding five years, or both, on conviction.
He also warned smokers not to discard their cigarette butts recklessly.
