| Syazwani Hj Rosli |
THE Fire and Rescue Department (FRD), in a press conference yesterday, reminded that it is of the utmost priority for members of the public to be extra vigilant and alert when leaving their home to celebrate Hari Raya with families and friends.
Among the safety aspects highlighted during the press conference yesterday include:
– Plan fire safety measures containing action procedures in case of fire and how to escape fire
– Learn more about fire safety and things that cause fire
– Know at least two exit routes to avoid being trapped during fire
– Understand on how to response, fight or extinguish fire when it is safe to do so
– Own fire prevention equipment such as fire extinguisher, fire blanket and smoke detectors
Head of Fire Safety Senior Superintendent Taib bin Haji Abdul Kahar, during the conference emphasised that human negligence is the main reason for the occurrence of accidental fires.
He further noted that a total of 116 fire cases for houses and buildings with two fatalities were recorded last year. The damages amounted up to BND7,350,590.
Meanwhile, he said, since January of this year until today, there have been 50 fire cases with one fatality and the damage caused has totalled to BND1,449,860.
Among the causes of fire, he highlighted, were excessive use of electrical appliances, unmonitored cooking, gas leak, faulty wiring, short circuits and others.
Considering that electric problems are the main cause of fire incidents throughout last year, Senior Superintendent Taib also urged the public to take continuous initiatives for fire prevention.
This includes ensuring that all electrical appliances are switched off especially extension cables, ensure electrical equipment are always under control and conform to the correct standards prescribed by certified electricians under the Department of Electrical Services.
Also, electrical equipment and wirings should not be exposed to hot or rainy weather, not to modify fuses in electrical switchboard, and purchase electrical wirings and appliances of high quality.
Head of Retail from the Brunei Shell Marketing Haji Mat Sarudin bin Haji Ismail also reminded the public to not be alarmed with the long queue at all petrol stations as oil supplies are more than adequate and scheduled deliveries to petrol stations across Brunei will be more frequent during this festive season so as to accommodate the increasing sales.
At the same time, he also reminded the public that 16 petrol stations will still be opened on the first day of Hari Raya – nine in Brunei-Muara District, three in Tutong District and four in Belait District.