Booked for ignoring fire safety norms

By ZAHRATULHAYAT MAT ARIF AND SHARIFAH SYAKILA | kedahnst@nst.com.my

OFFENCES: Errant operators fail to ensure smoke detectors, emergency lights, emergency exits and exit signs are functional

ALOR STAR: THE operators of five shopping complexes in Kedah were issued summonses for failing to ensure their premises were free from fire hazards.

State Fire and Rescue Department director Ahmad Shahabuddin said the errant operators, among others, failed to ensure their smoke detectors and emergency lights were in working order.

He said other offences included blocking emergency exits and for faulty exit signs.

"This is a very serious matter. No one should take fire prevention measures lightly," Ahmad said when launching a state-wide campaign to prevent fires at shopping outlets here recently.

Ahmad said the errant operators were booked under Section 58 of the Fire Services Act for failing to adhere to strict fire safety regulations.

He said they face a maximum fine of RM500 or six months' jail or both.

During the five-week campaign, the department would conduct checks on all 81 shopping complexes for fire hazards.

Ahmad said the department would also carry out several programmes including fire-fighting demonstrations and talks to boost fire safety awareness among members of the public.

Earlier, Ahmad presented certificates to the operators and owners of 24 commercial and shopping complexes for adhering to high fire safety standards.

Ahmad Shahabuddin (second from left) launching the fire prevention campaign at a shopping complex. Pic by Muhammad Azhar Ramli

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Booked for ignoring fire safety norms

OFFENCES: Errant operators fail to ensure smoke detectors, emergency lights, emergency exits and exit signs are functional

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