SIMUNJAN, Oct 31: Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Malaysia is constantly looking for alternatives, as well as best practices to enhance awareness and education on fire safety at all levels of society, including children.
Among the ongoing programmes which the department has established is the 3K Children’s Club (Kelab Keselamatan Kanak-Kanak).
“Children under the age of five are at the highest risk of injuries and death from fire, which is two times higher according to the national average. Studies conducted in the United States showed statistics of about 500 children under 14-years-old dying in house fires, while a total of 116,600 suffer from fire injuries every year,” Sarawak Bomba director Khirudin Drahman said at the 3K Children’s Club convention in Dewan Mesra Simunjan today.
As of Sept this year, four fire stations under Zone 2 namely Samarahan, Siburan, Serian and Simunjan have registered a total membership of 1,580 for the children’s club.
A total of 197 children, accompanied by 29 teachers in the district attended the convention.
“Throughout the session, these children were taught both theory and practical using fun concepts such as ‘stop, drop and roll’, ‘stay low and crawl’ and a fire drill with their teachers.
“Through these modules, children will be exposed to (awareness of) fire hazards as well as actions to be taken in the event of a fire including means of escape,” he added.
In keeping with the ‘Learn, Educate and Act’ theme, Khirudin said the establishment of 3K Clubs will foster a culture of fire safety among children who are the country’s future.
He added that children at this age often explore their world by trying new things, which may include harmful activities like playing with fire and fireworks.
“This is why the department is serious about it and we will continue to emphasise educating our young generation, especially those who are at kindergarten level on fire awareness,” he said.
Khirudin gave assurance that membership numbers will increase from time to time, according to the respective kindergarten and primary school’s growth. — DayakDaily
