KUCHING: A Bomba Community Carnival 2023 held at its Petra Jaya fire station here recently spread the word on fire safety and prevention.
Organised by the State Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba Sarawak) it featured a variety of activities, chief among them, its drive to enhance public awareness and preparedness in the event of a fire.
It also held courses to welcome new members of the Petra Jaya Bomba Community.
Bomba Community treasurer Jacky Jong said the purpose of the programme was to raise public awareness as house fires have become a concern of late.
Towards this end he said there were demonstrations on essential emergency practices for homes, including dealing with fires and managing life-threatening situations.
“For instance, when there’s a kitchen fire, you should cover the fire with a wet cloth, locate and cut off the gas at the source, then turn it off at the stove.
“There’s no take two in life, and it is crucial to equip yourself with fire safety awareness as it is rarely taught in schools,” he said.
Suhailah Abdullah, 50, who has been part of the Bomba community brigade for eight years said she joined because she was interested in helping the public in case of floods and fires.
“I encourage the public to join the Bomba community brigade as it is a way for us to give back and help our community in case of emergencies.
“The Bomba community brigade can also serve as the first line of defense to provide assistance because sometimes the fire brigade may not arrive at the scene on time due to traffic jams or road conditions,” said the Sarawak Golf Club employee.
Another member of the Bomba community brigade Norahamasnita Abdullah, 49, expressed similar sentiments.
“There are many benefits, at least we will be able to handle a fire break out in the kitchen, and we will be familiar with procedures should there be a gas leak,” said the housewife.
Another participant Chan Yu Lee, a 39-year-old digital marketing agent said while accidents are unavoidable, everyone has the responsibility to take necessary steps to prevent them.
“People must stay vigilant and be alert especially when using electric or fire stoves in the kitchen. As a person who’s afraid of fire, this course also helped me in gaining confidence when it comes to handling fire emergencies and how to protect yourself during a fire,” she said.
