Kota Kinabalu: Sabah Fire and Rescue Department Director Senior Assistant Fire Commissioner Zainal Madasin reminded against carelessness when celebrating Christmas as festive occasions are often associated with increased risk of fires and accidents.
He advised the public to be always vigilant and take precautions to ensure a safe and harmonious celebration.
“Be careful when installing decorative lights or using old electrical equipment and candles.
“Make sure all electrical equipment is properly checked, socket connections are not overloaded and switches are turned off before sleeping or leaving the house.
“Also, if using candles for decoration or worship, place them in a safe place and away from flammable materials,” he said in a statement, Monday.
He also reminded that the current rainy season brings with it the threat of flood in several areas of the country.
Zainal advised residents in risk areas to always monitor weather reports and warnings from authorities.
“Never take the risk of waiting in water-flooded areas or play in a fast river.
“Always prioritise the safety of your family, especially children, because water dangers can bring death in the blink of an eye,” he said.
“We are all responsible to ensure the safety of ourselves, families and communities.
“Let’s learn from previous incidents and together play a role in preventing any unwanted events.
“The Fire and Rescue Department is always ready to serve the community in any emergency situation. However, prevention efforts must come from the awareness of all of us,” he stressed.
Meanwhile the Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) launched “Op Lancar”, Monday, running until Jan 2 next year, to address increased traffic during the festive season and year-end school holidays.
Its Director Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri said the operation aims to reduce congestion through traffic dispersal measures on major routes while ensuring the safety of road users.
“JSPT is aware of increased traffic volume and congestion on the North-South Expressway (Plus), the East Coast Expressway (LPT) and other highways, as well as on federal and state roads,” he said.
He noted that Plus, in a statement on Dec 17, estimated that 2.12 million vehicles would use major expressways daily during the Christmas and New Year holiday period. Additionally, free tolls for all light vehicles are in effect from Monday until today (Tuesday).
In light of this, Mohd Yusri urged all motorists to adhere to traffic regulations, including observing speed limits, refraining from driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and complying with traffic signals.
He also advised the public to plan their journeys carefully and stay informed about weather conditions and traffic flow before setting out with their families.
“Ensure that your vehicle is in safe and well-maintained condition. Employers and commercial vehicle drivers are encouraged to plan their routes, prioritising the use of federal and state roads, to help reduce congestion on major highways nationwide,” he said.
He also urged road users to remain disciplined and exercise prudence while driving.
“The police greatly appreciate the cooperation of road users. For information on traffic congestion, the public can contact operations rooms at the district and contingent levels,” he added.
