Kota Kinabalu: The Sabah Fire and Rescue Department (FRD) warned Chinese New Year (CNY) revellers against overloading power outlets that often results in short circuits and house fires.
Sabah FRD Deputy Director Farhan Sufyan Borhan said fires occurring within the two-week period during the 2022 CNY celebrations tripled to 149 from 49 in 2021.
“The public have to be extra careful at home this holiday season, especially when firecrackers are involved as well as when on the road.
“When family members gather at one house, electrical consumption from a single outlet will likely increase and this enhances the risk of a house fire. Statistically speaking, 60 per cent of house fires are caused by this (overloading) other than cooking in the kitchen,” he said.
“We are nearing the end of the Northeast monsoon and the temperature is rising, which is a precursor to fires,” he said when met after a fire safety campaign in Lido Square Tuesday morning where related pamphlets were distributed to the public.
Farhan said they would continue the campaign at shopping complexes and public attraction areas until next week.
He also said only 20 per cent of Sabah’s firemen are allowed leave this CNY, leaving 800 personnel on standby at all times.
Lido Square Manager Andy Goh appreciated the awareness effort, more so with the expectation of larger crowds drawn to the CNY bazaar in a more relaxed manner post-pandemic.
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