KUCHING: A total of 45 new auxiliary firefighters (PBB) will be stationed at 10 fire stations throughout the state, which will enhance the Fire and Rescue Department’s (Bomba) services.
According to state Bomba director Khirudin Drahman Husaini, the 10 stations that will receive the PBB are Asajaya (15), Daro (15), Tanjung Manis (4) Marudi (3), Samalaju (3) and one each at Bintangor, Song, Sri Aman, Saratok and Limbang.
“Most of the stations which are under categories C, D and E is to attend to minor incident that happens in small villages or towns,” he explained during a press conference after an accreditation ceremony of the 45 new PBB at the department’s headquarters here in Tabuan Jaya today.
He also announced that the new stations in Daro and Asajaya will commence operation on June 1.
Khirduin said appointing more auxiliary firefighters will not only strengthen its manpower, but also to reach the scene of the incident within the “response time” policy.
“Firefighters need to reach the scene of the incident within 10 minutes or less. By posting these auxiliary firefighters at these stations, it can also accommodate nearby incidents within its response time,” he said.
In addition to the 45 auxiliary firefighters, there are 216 personnel in the state.
With a total of 32 stations available throughout the state, according to Khirduin, it is possible for his team to reach their destinations within 10 to 15 minutes.
He also called on the community to work together in creating and spreading awareness on the importance of learning safety skills.
“From factors such as geographical boundaries to population density, these have affected the rescue process and our ‘response time’.
“Therefore, I urge the public, especially youths to voluntarily participate in security and safety training programmes.
“Volunteer firefighters can act as first responders while waiting for further assistance to arrive,” he said,
Earlier, the ceremony saw 45 trainees receiving their accreditation certificates after undergoing 10 days of training at the headquarters in Tabuan Jaya.
