‘Call rescuers first, snap photos second during emergencies’

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Law Poh Kiong

MIRI: Members of the public should be more responsible by contacting the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) or police first rather than snap pictures or record videos of an incident to be posted on social media.

Bomba Miri zone chief Law Poh Kiong said this was because the first several minutes of any incident could make the difference between life and death.

“Indeed, photos and videos that go viral are sometimes the fastest source of information for police and Bomba in knowing the occurrence of any accidents or other incidents.

“However, it is even more important to call the emergency line first, to inform the police and Bomba of the situation, rather than take photos or record videos to be put online.

“Many a times, when we try to contact the person who recorded the video or took the photo, they refuse to give any information despite being the first witness at the location.

“This has hindered us in trying to do our job and rescuing lives,” said Law recently.

He said the ‘race’ to be the first to post a photo or video of an incident on social media should not come at a price where someone’s life is risked.

“The race to be the first to take photos or video is not healthy and at times, it could result in negative consequences to the community.

“Hence, I do hope that the public be more cautious towards their surroundings and be more sensitive to the people around them.”