MIRI: A short circuit on an electricity pole sparked a fire in Lutong on Thursday afternoon (Jan 8), triggering a swift response from the Fire and Rescue Department and raising concerns over electrical safety in residential areas.
The incident occurred at a house in Jalan Kampung Batu 1 10E, where flames were reported on a power pole located close to a house. Firefighters from the Lutong Fire and Rescue Station were alerted at 12.34 pm and arrived at the scene within seven minutes.
According to the Fire and Rescue Department, the fire was believed to have originated from an electrical fault on the pole. While the blaze did not spread to nearby structures, it posed a potential risk to the adjacent house due to exposed cables running across the roof.
The operation was led by Lutong Fire Station chief Henry Jugah, who said firefighters immediately carried out a size-up assessment upon arrival.
“As a safety precaution, the team disconnected a Telekom Malaysia Unifi fibre optic cable that was lying across the complainant’s roof. This was done after confirmation from Sarawak Energy that there was no live electrical current,” he said.
Sarawak Energy personnel were also deployed to the site to secure the electrical infrastructure and ensure the area was safe before firefighters stood down.
The situation was brought under control within minutes, and no injuries were reported. Firefighters remained on site until the operation was officially concluded at 1.37 pm to ensure there was no residual risk.
A total of six personnel and one fire engine were involved in the operation. No evacuations were required, and no damage to private property was reported.
Authorities have reminded the public to report any signs of electrical sparks, smoke or exposed cables immediately, particularly in densely populated residential areas where the risk of escalation is high.
