The ongoing El Nino phenomenon, which has caused drier weather conditions, has contributed to 2,190 fire-related calls and incidents recorded in the first six months of this year, with a significant increase reported in March and April.
Kelantan Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) director Farhan Sufyan Borhan said the prolonged hot weather and lower rainfall levels could further increase the risk of open burning incidents if the phenomenon continues until September.
“Out of the 2,190 fire calls received this year, the highest surge in cases occurred during March and April.
“We expect open burning incidents to continue occurring in the state if El Nino persists until September,” he told reporters.
Based on JBPM records, a total of 242 open burning cases were recorded from January to June last year, with Tumpat recording the highest number at 99 cases, followed by Kota Bharu with 52 cases and Pasir Puteh with 37 cases.
Farhan said most open burning incidents were linked to uncontrolled activities involving agricultural burning and land clearing.
He urged the public to ensure any burning activities are properly monitored to prevent fires from spreading and endangering surrounding areas.
“If burning is necessary, it must be carried out under control to avoid incidents similar to those recorded in March and April,” he said.
As part of preparedness measures, JBPM Kelantan has stationed 30 fire engines and 40 water pumps across the state to enable quick response in the event of open fires.
Farhan said the department would continue strengthening cooperation with local authorities and the Department of Environment to improve prevention efforts, while reminding the public not to conduct open burning irresponsibly.
He stressed that prevention remains the department’s priority as many open burning incidents can be avoided through cooperation from all parties.
Meanwhile, Farhan said JBPM Kelantan is also focusing on fire safety at accommodation premises by carrying out enforcement operations involving Fire Hazard Removal Notices (MBK) at budget hotels, guesthouses and homestays throughout the state.
He said the move was necessary as many of these premises operate from private residences, with some lacking basic fire safety facilities such as fire extinguishers and emergency response plans.
The department will identify such premises through various channels, including online booking platforms, before providing advice to operators to ensure compliance with fire safety requirements.
