BINTULU: A devastating fire completely destroyed a six-door workers’ quarters in Tatau last night, leaving its occupants without a home. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident.
According to a spokesperson from the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department’s (JBPM) Operations Centre (PGO), an emergency call was received at 9.51 pm, prompting the deployment of personnel from the Tatau Fire and Rescue Station (BBP) to the scene.
“The fire involved a terraced workers’ quarters made of non-permanent materials, measuring 20×90 square feet. The entire structure was completely burned down,” the spokesperson stated.
Efforts by local residents to extinguish the blaze using 10 portable fire extinguishers proved futile as the flames spread rapidly. Firefighters arrived swiftly and used a 300-foot long hose with two nozzles, along with an auxiliary pump from their machinery, to battle the fire using an open water source.
Despite the intensity of the fire, all residents managed to escape safely without any injuries. However, the loss is significant as the quarters were completely gutted. Authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire and assessing the total value of damages.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety, especially in structures built with non-permanent materials. Residents are urged to stay vigilant and ensure that fire prevention measures are in place to avoid similar tragedies in the future.
