Road users are encouraged to keep a fire extinguisher in their vehicles when travelling back to their hometowns ahead of Aidilfitri as an early precaution to handle emergencies, particularly vehicle fires that are increasingly reported on the roads.
Sayani Saidon, director of the Perak Fire and Rescue Department, said the equipment could enable immediate action to be taken in the event of a fire caused by accidents or vehicle malfunctions.
He noted that vehicle fire incidents in the state have shown a worrying trend, with an average of three to four cases recorded weekly involving various types of vehicles, including cars, motorcycles and lorries.
Sayani also advised motorists to ensure the fire extinguisher is placed in an accessible location inside the vehicle so it can be quickly retrieved during an emergency.
“It is important to know where the fire extinguisher is kept. It should be placed under the passenger seat so that it can be easily reached. Do not keep it at the back or inside the boot as that will make it difficult to access when needed,” he told reporters.
He was speaking during the JBPM Perak Iftar Bubur Lambuk Distribution Programme held at Bulatan Sultan Azlan Shah on Thursday.
Also present at the event was Sandrea Ng Shy Ching, Perak’s state executive councillor for housing and local government.
Sayani added that the department has stepped up preparedness ahead of the festive season by maintaining operational strength with 80 per cent of personnel on duty while 20 per cent are on leave.
Currently, the state has around 1,200 firefighters, with approximately 1,000 deployed for duty while more than 200 personnel are granted leave.
He said firefighters have also been stationed at several strategic locations, including the Tapah Rest and Service Area, areas before the Menora Tunnel, and the Kemunting Toll Plaza to ensure quicker response times if emergencies occur along the highway.
According to him, the move is necessary due to the surge in traffic volume during festive periods, which often contributes to a rise in road accidents.
Members of the public who plan to leave their homes for the holidays were also reminded to switch off all electrical appliances and kitchen equipment to reduce the risk of fires.
