MP calls for fire safety training in villages

SERIAN: The Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) has been urged to conduct fire control courses in every village to prevent major fire outbreaks.

Serian MP Datuk Seri Richard Riot made the call following a recent longhouse fire in Kampung Krusen Siu here which left 43 people homeless.

Riot emphasised that such training could be crucial in managing fires before the arrival of emergency services.

Referring to the Kampung Krusen Siu fire incident, he cited initial report from Bomba saying individuals who first noticed the fire had attempted to extinguish it with water, hoping it would be effective.

Riot (left) and Dr Simon (second left)

Riot (third left) is briefed about the fire incident

“Had there been a course on fire safety, they would know that using water might not always be the right approach. If they had fire extinguishers, the fire might not have spread.

“Bomba could provide more courses to villages and form community fire squads, especially in areas with old houses,” he said to the Sarawak Tribune when visiting the site of the burnt longhouse.

Riot also expressed gratitude to the Serian Division Welfare Department for activating a temporary evacuation centre and taking necessary measures to support the affected victims.

He also extended his thanks to other agencies such as the police, Sarawak Civil Defence Force (APM), and Public Works Department (JKR) for their assistance.

“We are thankful that there were no fatalities. I hope the affected residents remain strong and patient during this difficult time,” he added.

The condition of the longhouse after the fire was successfully extinguished.

One of the house located next to the longhouse

Also present during the visit was Tebedu assemblyman Dr Simon Sinang Bada.

The residents of the 60-year-old longhouse, consisting of eight doors were relocated to the temporary evacuation centre in the village.

Meanwhile, swift action of the firefighters had successfully saved five neighbouring houses situated next to the longhouse.