LUNDU, Nov 7: Tanjong Datu assemblywoman Datuk Amar Jamilah Anu urged all parties to play their part to ensure safety during water activities.
According to her, it is not only the sole responsibility of the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) and all parties should take precautionary measures especially when risk areas have been identified.
“If necessary, learn all the regulations and laws and at the same time improve them in order to ensure the safety of water activities,” emphasised Jamilah in her speech during the closing ceremony for the Safety of Water Activities programme held in Sematan, today.
She added that the general public should also take responsibility in ensuring their own safety, especially of young children, by ensuring that the laws and regulations are abided with.
Jamilah noted that for the hoteliers, homestays and chalet operators, it is necessary to follow the rules and laws stipulated by the government.
“Ensure that all emergency equipment is fully functional and in good condition as preparation for any untoward incident.
“Not forgetting also fixing warning signs for any high risk areas, and ensuring trained security personnel are on standby too,” she added.
Meanwhile, Bomba Sarawak director Khirudin Drahman said that the programme is one of the department’s main focus in an effort to raise public awareness on the matter.
He said based on Bomba statistics, the number of deaths by drowning is higher compared to death due to fire.
“From January 2019 until today, we have recorded a total of 196 deaths due to drowning, and only 93 deaths due to fire,” he highlighted.
Khirudin also disclosed that most drowning incidents occur in rivers and water channels, followed by the beach, lakes, mines, waterfalls and also sewers.
“Most of those involved in the statistics are outsiders as they are not used to the surroundings, and even though there is a warning sign, the public are still complacent and do not care about their safety,” he added.
Khirudin also urged the public to always prioritise their safety, always be aware of warning signs and follow the rules and regulations regardless of their location. — DayakDaily
