Sabah Fire Dept urges public to avoid rivers, waterfalls during monsoon

Kota Kinabalu, November 12 — The Sabah Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has urged residents to heed safety instructions during the current North-east Monsoon season. Director Mohd Pisar Aziz emphasized the need for precautionary measures, including moving to relief centers if instructed by authorities or if floodwaters pose a threat to homes.

He warned against wading through flooded areas, either on foot or by vehicle, citing the dangers posed by deep water and strong currents. Parents were advised to keep an eye on children and prohibit them from playing in floodwaters to prevent drowning or other hazards. To avoid electric shocks, residents should switch off the main power supply before leaving their homes, if safe to do so, and avoid touching electrical appliances in wet areas.

The public was also cautioned to stay clear of any severed or fallen electrical cables and report such incidents to authorities or Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd. Mohd Pisar further advised postponing all water-based recreational activities, such as bathing, swimming, picnicking, and camping near rivers, rapids, waterfalls, and irrigation canals, due to unpredictable weather and heavy rain in upstream catchment areas.

Such actions could lead to sudden water surges causing rapid floods, posing an immediate threat to life. He stressed the importance of staying vigilant, following weather forecasts, and heeding safety warnings at recreational spots, urging the public to contact the emergency hotline at 999 in case of emergencies or early signs of water surges.

Mohd Pisar also pushed for fire safety awareness at home, including supervising children around electrical switches and appliances, ensuring dry hands, and avoiding overloading sockets. In the event of a fire, occupants should evacuate immediately through a safe exit, without re-entering the premises. Finally, he stressed that fire prevention is a collective responsibility, complementing the department's role as the primary rescue agency.