Sabah Fire Dept urges public to avoid rivers, waterfalls during monsoon

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The public is reminded to adhere to safety advice and take necessary precautions when dealing with floods, as well as to postpone all ...

KOTA KINABALU, Nov 12 — The public is reminded to adhere to safety advice and take necessary precautions when dealing with floods, as well as to postpone all water-based recreational activities during the current North-east Monsoon (MTL) season.

Sabah Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) director Mohd Pisar Aziz said residents must immediately move to relief centres when instructed by the authorities or if rising floodwaters threaten their homes.

He cautioned the public against wading through flooded areas, whether on foot or by vehicle, as the depth of the water and strength of the currents could sweep anyone away.

“Parents are also reminded to monitor their children’s movements and prohibit them from playing in floodwaters to avoid the risk of drowning or other dangers,” he told Bernama.

He said that to avoid the risk of electric shocks, residents should switch off the main power supply before leaving their homes, provided it was safe to do so, and avoid touching electrical appliances in wet areas.

He also called on the public to stay clear of any severed or fallen electrical cables and to immediately report the matter to the authorities or Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd.

Mohd Pisar also advised the public to postpone all water-based recreational activities, including bathing, swimming, picnicking and camping near rivers, rapids, waterfalls and irrigation canals throughout the Northeast Monsoon season.

He said this was crucial due to the unpredictable weather conditions and persistent heavy rain in upstream catchment areas, which could cause water levels to rise abruptly and trigger sudden water surges that could claim lives within seconds.

“Water surges can happen in the blink of an eye following heavy rain in catchment areas, and the public should not wait until the water flowt becomes strong before taking action,” he added.

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