Weak enforcement of fireworks sales sparks safety fears

Weak enforcement of fireworks sales sparks safety fears

KUALA LUMPUR: A safety activist has sounded the alarm over the mushrooming of fireworks stalls in public spaces, warning that weak enforcement and poor safety practices could lead to a tragedy.

K. Bala Supramaniam said many such stalls appeared to be set up without proper consideration for safety, citing unsafe demonstrations in crowded areas, including pedestrian walkways and shoplots.

He said traders were operating directly in front of business premises, including restaurants where patrons often smoke outside, next to the stalls selling fireworks.

Bala, who founded the Malaysian Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association, urged authorities to impose stricter regulations, including limiting fireworks sales to open spaces away from ignition sources such as people, vehicles and cigarettes.

“Fireworks stalls should not be located near hospitals, clinics, schools or areas storing gas cylinders, as these locations pose heightened risks and could disrupt essential services.

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“We do not want another tragedy like the Sungai Buloh Bright Sparklers fireworks factory explosion. Approval must not be given in critical areas,” he said.

He was referring to the 1991 disaster, which caused 26 deaths, 103 injuries and destroyed 46 homes.

With hot and humid weather further increasing fire risks, Bala said it was crucial for traders to be equipped with fire extinguishers and adhere strictly to safety protocols.

He called for tighter controls on storage, suggesting that traders should only be allowed to keep minimal stock to reduce the risk of fires spreading.

He also suggested that all traders undergo fire safety training conducted by the Fire and Rescue Department and be certified and inspected before being granted permits.

With Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations lasting up to a month, he urged the authorities to step up monitoring and enforcement, including regular inspections by fire officials.

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“The department already has the authority to stop hazardous activities. They must act if these stalls pose a danger.”

Meanwhile, Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said those involved in selling fireworks in public places should take a proactive approach to safety.

“There is no harm in keeping fire extinguishers readily available. In the event of a fire, they can act immediately to douse it and prevent it from spreading.

“As a precaution, local authorities should also issue regular reminders about fire safety. Fireworks are commonly used during festive seasons and this makes safety awareness even more important,” he said.

Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming had said standard operating procedures for the sale of fireworks at temporary stalls would be reviewed.

He said the Fire and Rescue Department and the Local Government Department had been directed to conduct the review.

Calls have been mounting for tighter controls or a total ban on the sale of firecrackers and fireworks following a string of accidents and concerns over safety, weak enforcement and the proliferation of illegal products.