Kelantan fire dept targets all firefighters to master swimming this year

The Kelantan Fire and Rescue Department targets all firefighters in the state to acquire basic swimming skills, given their frontline role in rescue operations, particularly during floods.

Its director, Farhan Sofyan Borhan, said previously, 88 personnel did not have swimming skills, but the number has been reduced to 53 after several training sessions were conducted.

“Swimming is a very important skill because firefighters are the first responders in every emergency, especially during floods. To me, it is mandatory. How can we save victims if our own members cannot swim?

“This year, we are targeting everyone to be able to swim, except those with physical limitations,” Farhan (above, right) said in a press conference after the Kelantan Fire and Rescue Department's monthly assembly today.

He said there is only one swimming pool in the state, which is still being upgraded, forcing the department to find alternatives, including holding training in lakes or rivers.

At the same event, Farhan said 11 boats have been handed over to the volunteer and community fire brigades as part of the early preparation for the Northeast Monsoon (MTL) in November.

“Although it is now the Southwest Monsoon, which normally sees less rain, we are noticing frequent rainfall. Our concern is the possibility of flash floods or falling trees.

“In the past five years, 109 lives were lost due to drowning in Kelantan. Therefore, we are also conducting basic life support activities and awareness programmes to prevent incidents in rivers, lakes, or at the beaches,” he said.

He added that areas identified as prone to water surges are Jeli and Kuala Krai, while drowning incidents at beaches are frequent in Bachok, requiring the establishment of an auxiliary fire team involving local residents in the area.

On the issue of drug abuse, Farhan stressed that no firefighters in Kelantan have been found involved this year, but surprise urine tests would continue to be conducted at all stations with the cooperation of the National Anti-Drug Agency.

“Last year, only one case was detected, and court action is being taken. This year, we want to ensure there is zero involvement with drugs, and monitoring efforts will continue,” he said.

- Bernama

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