By Selangor Journal Team
SHAH ALAM, Feb 7 — Three forest reserves in Selangor have been identified among four locations deemed at risk for large-scale peatland fires, revealed Selangor Fire and Rescue Department director Wan Md Razali Wan Ismail.
Sinar Harian quoted him as saying that the areas are the Raja Muda Musa Forest Reserve, South Kuala Langat Forest Reserve, North Kuala Langat Forest Reserve
The fourth location was identified as Kampung Johan Setia in Klang.
In view of this, he said vigilant monitoring is conducted on these locations, respectively by the Bestari Jaya, Banting, Telok Panglima Garang and Andalas fire and rescue stations.
“Additionally, 17 water tanker vehicles will be stationed at the respective fire stations to prepare for early suppression of forest and peatland fires.”
Meanwhile, Razali said the Selangor Fire and Rescue Department has received a total of 79 calls related to open burning incidents in the state as of February 6, comprising 37 cases of rubbish burning, bush or grass fires (19), forest fires (13), and plantation or farm fires (10).
He added that in 2023, a total of 2,254 calls related to fire incidents were recorded, compared to 1,844 in 2022 and 3,679 in 2021.
He also said members of the state Fire and Rescue Department are on high alert and that their leaves have been frozen, in view of the forecasted dry spell starting this month.
“All firefighting equipment will be thoroughly inspected, tested, and promptly maintained if damaged. Regular patrols will also be conducted to identify areas prone to forest fires,” he said.
Last January, the Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) forecasted drier weather conditions in Malaysia in February, despite potential downpour and flooding in some parts of the country.
MetMalaysia reportedly said the forecast follows the northeast monsoon phenomenon, which is expected to end in March, and rising heat conditions due to the El Nino.
