No Pix
JOHOR BARU: The Johor state government is urging for a clear set of guideline be drawn up before the policy to install fire extinguisher at each home is enforced nationwide.
State Housing and Local Government Committee chairman Datuk Md Jais Sarday said proper guideline on the usage of fire-fighting equipment is needed to ensure houseowners understand the essential role fire extinguisher plays in a home safety plan.
He said while the state government welcomes such policy, there is also a need for the Fire and Rescue Department to be at the forefront on the matter.
This, Md Jais said includes conducting a feasibility study to identify the fire extinguisher model suitable for home use.
"We must make sure that the fire extinguisher is safe to use and that a clear guideline on its storage and usage be put in place. This is because in the wrong hands, the fire-fighting equipment can be used for the wrong reasons.
"For example, thieves can use the fire extinguisher to break a door or as weapon to hurt their victims.
"The Fire and Rescue Department must also ensure that the extinguisher is not being misused by the occupants," he said, adding that proper training and awareness about fire safety need to be ironed out.
Md Jais was commenting on the NST report yesterday on the department's plan to introduce a legal provision to equip every home in the country with a fire extinguisher in the near future.
Currently, the provision on this is placed under the Fire Safety for Buildings clause of the Uniform Building By-Laws (UBBL) 2012, a state bylaw which has been gazetted only in Sabah, Selangor, Terengganu and Penang. Sarawak has its own building ordinance.
If the provision is passed, those who purchased houses from 2012 could ask from their housing developers for a fire extinguishing unit. Others would need to buy it themselves.
keywords: Johor, guideline, fire safety, fire extinguisher, Johor Housing and Local Government Committee chairman, Md Jais Sarday, housewoner