Fire Breaks Out in SS17 & USJ11 Just as Firemen Sit Down for Iftar — Fasting Heroes Spring Into Action!

Just as the firemen at the SS17 Fire & Rescue Department sat down to break fast yesterday evening, the shrill call of duty came not once, but twice.

They had barely quenched their thirst with dates and taken a spoonful of bubur lambuk when two emergency calls came in – one from USJ 11 and another right in their own neighbourhood in SS17!

As fasting firemen left their meal behind, two teams immediately geared up and sprang into action. One crew headed to SS17, where a small blaze had broken out in a kitchen after the occupant accidentally left something cooking unattended on the stove.

The other crew rushed to USJ 11/4D, where a gas hose leak caused another kitchen fire that seriously damaged the cooking area. Fortunately, both fires were contained before they could spread, with no injuries reported.

SS17 Fire & Rescue Department chief Deputy Superintendent Muhammad Iskandar Zul Akbar Abdul Aziz expressed gratitude that quick action prevented further loss. However, he noted that incidents like these serve as an important reminder to stay vigilant especially during Ramadan, when many households are busy preparing meals for iftar.

He shared several important kitchen safety tips with residents:

• Check your LPG gas hose regularly. Replace it immediately if it’s cracked or worn out to prevent gas leaks.

• Avoid multitasking when cooking — stepping away, even for a minute, can spell disaster.

• If you smell gas, don’t switch on any electrical appliances. Instead, open doors and windows for ventilation.

• If your stove catches fire, never use water to put it out. Use a fire blanket or a wet towel instead to smother the flames.

As fasting continues this Ramadan, let’s remember – safety starts at home. A few simple checks can make all the difference between a safe iftar and a fiery mishap.

(Photos courtesy of SS17 Fire & Rescue Department)