Firefighters work on a bushfire in Kampung Pulau Melayu.
MIRI: The practice of open burning here could cause haze and unhealthy air quality.
Zone 6 Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) chief Supt Law Poh Kiong said the increase of open burning cases of late is worrying.
“The city will experience high API (air pollutant index) readings if open burning activities continue because since March 16, we have received an average of 10 calls daily regarding bushfires,” he said when contacted yesterday.
“The trend is worrying especially when we are currently experiencing a hot and dry spell, which is expected to continue until May.”
On Monday, Law said the three fire stations under Zone 6 – Marudi, Miri, and Lopeng, responded to 11 calls on bushfires.
“Bomba Miri was deployed to three areas, namely at Jalan Dato Abang Indeh, behind Pullman Hotel, and at Marina Square 2.
“Bomba Lopeng, on the other hand, was sent to tackle bushfires at five areas namely at Kampung Lusut, Pujut 8A, Miri Golf Club, Jalan Dato Permaisuri in Permyjaya and Kuala Baram,” he said.
Bushfires also kept Bomba Marudi busy at Kampung Pemindahan, Jalan Ulu Linei, and near the Marudi Mini Stadium.
“Despite the hectic day for our men, we have been trained both mentally and physically to face anything, including bushfires,” Law said.