SIBU – A driver and his passenger endured a frightening experience when the lorry they were in suddenly burst into flames near the Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Sungai Anak intersection along the Pan Borneo Highway in the Selangau-Tatau stretch early this morning.
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According to the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department Operations Centre (PGO), the incident occurred at about 5.40 am. A six-member team, together with a Fire Rescue Team (FRT) from the Tatau Fire and Rescue Station (BBP), was immediately dispatched to the scene upon receiving the emergency call.
Operations Commander reported that the fire had engulfed around 40 per cent of the rear section of the lorry, which was transporting iron. Initial investigations suggest the blaze started from the vehicle’s brakes and tyres.
“The lorry driver and his assistant attempted to douse the fire using two fire extinguishers. However, their efforts were unsuccessful as the flames continued to spread,” the statement read.
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The Fire and Rescue team then deployed a first aid hose stream to bring the fire under control and fully extinguish it. The operation concluded at 6.35 am.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the swift response from the authorities prevented the fire from consuming the entire vehicle. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
The incident serves as a reminder for heavy vehicle operators to regularly check their braking systems and tyres, especially during long-distance travel, to reduce the risk of such accidents. Pan Borneo Highway users are also urged to remain alert and give way to emergency vehicles during such situations.
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