Fire safety a must for night outlets

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KOTA KINABALU: Stern action will be taken against owners of outlets operating at night who fail to comply with the fire and safety regulation.

Sabah Fire and Rescue Department director Khirudin Drahman said based on spot checks carried out in 2009 by the department, some night outlets still had not complied with the fire and safety regulation.

Offences included not installing proper fire extinguishers or fire alarm on their premises, he said.

“During such spot checks, we also found most exit signs or lights were turned off while fire escape routes had been blocked at their premises.

“These are not only against the law but also endanger customers at their premises,” he said when met yesterday.

To prevent unwanted incidents, Khirudin said the Fire and Rescue Services Department would continue to provide counselling and advice to owners regarding fire safety and prevention, while stern action would also be taken for repeated offences, he added.

A total of 370 night outlets in the state were inspected for safety purposes by the department, especially during the festive seasons in 2009.

“This is a proactive move taken by our department to prevent unwanted incidents from occurring, especially during the festive seasons.

“As we are aware, patrons at night outlets during such festivities are not concerned over their safety as they would be enjoying themselves.

“Therefore we must ensure safety measures are taken by the owners of such premises.

“This is not only for the safety of their property but also that of their customers,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Fire and Rescue Service Department had also carried out 624 scheduled inspections on buildings such as offices, restaurants and motels where a total of 833 warning notices were issued for numerous offences, he said.