SHAH ALAM: The Selangor Fire and Rescue Department recorded a total of 7,350 fire incidents in the state in 2023, including the airplane crash incident here.
Its director Wan Md Razali Wan Ismail said this figure was an increase over the 6,294 cases recorded in 2022.
"The incidents resulting in loss of life showed a decline, dropping from 32 fatalities to 16 from 2019 to 2021.
"Nevertheless, there was an increase last year, resulting in 21 lives lost," he told reporters after launching the Fire Safety Campaign ahead of the Chinese New Year celebration here on Saturday (Feb 3).
Wan Md Razali said throughout the festive period next week, about 1,120 out of nearly 1,600 firemen will be on duty.
"Only 30% of our personnel have been allowed to go on leave and we will ensure that at least 470 members and officers are on duty every day," he said.
Meanwhile, he said nearly 50% of buildings categorised as designated structures under the Fire Services Act 1988 in Selangor lack a fire certificate (FC).
"In Selangor, there are 1,844 buildings categorised as designated premises under the Act to obtain a FC and as of 2023, only 980 have the required certification, which is less than the mandated number.
"During the same period, Selangor received 1,239 applications, with 1,036 undergoing checks and 997 being processed for FC issuance. The certificate will be granted upon meeting the fire safety requirements," he said.
He said last year, charges were filed against 99 premises owners for non-compliance with fire safety requirements.
"A range of violations occurred, such as blocking safety exit routes, issues with malfunctioning pump systems, problems with emergency lights, unauthorised modifications to designated premises made without approval from the fire department and other similar infringements," he said. – Bernama
