“The toddler questioned why matches were not kept in the right place. This is the kind of awareness that we need,”
Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
FIRE safety knowledge among the communities of Sarawak is still far below the required standard.
The basic understanding of total fire safety is often neglected, leaving many unaware of the potential dangers they face.
The lack of exposure and experience in fire safety elements such as precaution, prevention, protection and survival in the event of a fire remains alarmingly low.
The prevalence of bad and negative attitudes further hampers people’s perception of the dangers posed by fires.
Unsafe attitudes, behaviours, and conditions are frequently the “culprits” in tragic fire incidents, compounded by poor housekeeping and a lack of maintenance culture, increasing the probability of fire outbreaks.
The State Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba Sarawak) has taken a commendable step in addressing this critical issue by introducing six interesting modules aimed at educating the young about fire safety.
These modules, including “Learn Not to Burn,” “Good and Bad Fire,” “Stop, Drop, and Roll,” “Get Out and Stay Out,” “Plan Your Drills,” and “Act Safe and Stay Safe,” are designed to engage the younger generation and instill essential fire safety knowledge.
The establishment of the Community Learning Centre at BBP Batu Lintang is a testament to Bomba Sarawak’s commitment to connecting and creating a platform for the young to enhance their understanding and upskill in total fire safety.
This centre offers a whole life experience and exposure, with the impact only becoming apparent when these “trained youngsters” react effectively during fire incidents.
Records and statistics show that children are excellent learners when it comes to survival skills if given the right exposure.
Funded by the Farley Foundation, the setting up of the new Community Learning Centre at BBP Batu Lintang is a significant investment in creating a conducive environment for young children to learn about total fire safety.
These young minds will be the future leaders who will transform the fire safety community, firmly believing that “fire is preventable.”
The location of the centre at BBP Batu Lintang adds an intriguing dimension to the learning experience as children get to immerse themselves in a simulated firefighter’s lifestyle.
They also have the exciting opportunity to interact with real firefighters and explore their fire and rescue tools.
The joy ride in real fire engines becomes an unforgettable memory, motivating these young souls in positive ways – it is indeed fun with a purpose.
The carefully designed programmes at the Community Learning Centre aim to have a profound impact on young children, especially in shaping their thinking patterns concerning potential dangers.
The ability to avoid such risks is significantly enhanced when they are exposed to fire safety education from an early age.
Additionally, the Community Learning Centre serves as a place for communities, especially in the learning process, to become first responders within their own neighbourhoods.
Volunteer firefighters, community firefighting teams, and Emergency Response Teams (ERT) will find a dedicated avenue for their training at the Community Learning Centre.
Equipped with the right tools and guided by a team of trained firefighters, these community heroes will always be ready to assist.
This concept of a Community Learning Centre is not new, it has been embraced by most developed nations, including Japan and Sweden.
These countries have well-structured centres that efficiently train their citizens in fire safety and emergency response.
Adopting a similar approach in Sarawak will undoubtedly have a great impact.
The Community Learning Centre also serves as a unique platform for connecting relevant authorities and NGOs with a common interest in building resilient communities against disasters.
This integration strengthens cooperation and collaboration among all stakeholders.
Indeed, the Communities Learning Centre is poised to bring a significant positive impact, guiding people toward a common goal: Total Fire Safety.
Moreover, the centre plays another vital role by integrating Bomba Sarawak’s 5’ C concept approach: Contact, Communicate, Coordinate, Collaboration, and Cooperation.
These principles ensure the seamless dissemination of vital information among citizens during emergencies.
Effective communication, competence, confidence, and command within the citizens during disasters and fire incidents will minimise the impacts and lead to a faster return to normalcy.
The Community Learning Centre serves as a beacon of hope, ensuring that our young ones grow up with the knowledge and skills to keep themselves and others safe.
Remember, fire safety is everyone’s responsibility, and we can make a significant difference by taking it seriously.
The views expressed here are those of the columnist and do not necessarily represent the views of New Sarawak Tribune.
