By Brad Rantayy
MIRI, Dec 9: A total of 16 high-risk areas for drowning have been identified in Sarawak, says Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Malaysia director-general Dato Sri Mohammad Hamdan Wahid.
“This includes drowning cases involving crocodile attacks,” he told reporters today after launching a safety sign at Tanjong Lobang beach in Miri.
He said, despite drowning cases in Sarawak being categorised as at a moderate level compared to nationwide, signboards displaying safety measures will be erected at these areas (hotspots) for visitors as a precaution.
Thus, he reminded visitors intending to participate in water recreational activities at places such as beaches, rivers, water channels, lakes, mining pools and waterfalls to be always vigilant.
Nationwide, from January until March this year, a total of 54 deaths due to drowning were reported.
“Nearly 60 per cent (of these deaths), were those aged from nine to 39-years-old,” disclosed Mohammad Hamdan.
Thus, community awareness is important in preventing drowning cases, he added.
Also present at the unveiling of the safety signboard at Tanjong Lobang beach were Petronas Carigali Sdn Bhd (PCSB) -Sarawak Asset Senior General Manager Ruslan Abdul Ghani, Sarawak Bomba director Datu Khirudin Drahman and Miri Bomba chief Supt Law Poh Kiong. — DayakDaily
