SARIKEI: Fire spreading rapidly due to strong winds and dry weather — these are some of the challenges faced by firemen.
Theirs is not an easy task, even risky at times, and they have to change tactics to prevent the fires from destroying nearby forests and homes.
In Kuala Baram recently, the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) resorted to water bombing.
Peatlands are suitable for agriculture but their soil structure makes fires difficult to be extinguished.
This is further exacerbated by irresponsible individuals conducting open burning, thus worsening the situation.
As a result, the fires caused haze, affecting the health and daily activities of
residents.
In Sarikei, the situation is still under control but reports about bush fires have been received in recent days, the same thing happened in Bintangor.
Sarikei Bomba chief Mahmuddin Narudin said the latest case involved a two-acre grove in Jalan Siung Hua.
“Our firefighters are controlling the situation. However, we are facing some problems, including shortage of water.
“So far, we have been fortunate that all of these incidents have not resulted in injuries and property damage,” he said.
Mahmuddin again reminded the public to refrain from doing open burning.
