SIBU: Twenty-one people were left with nothing but clothes on their backs after a fire destroyed two wooden houses at Lorong Kampung Jeriah 3, Kampung Jeriah yesterday (Oct 13).
The incident, which occurred at around 5.15 pm, saw all occupants managing to escape safely without any injuries or casualties reported.
According to the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba), the first house was occupied by eight people while, the second housed 13.
Firefighters from Sungai Merah station were dispatched to the scene, about 13km away, with additional assistance from Sibu Sentral and Sibu Jaya stations.
Upon arrival, they found both houses beyond saving and proceeded to put out the flames using water sourced from a nearby fire hydrant.
The team also successfully prevented the blaze from spreading to a nearby house within the same lot.
The fore was brought under control by 5.40 pm, followed by overhaul works to ensure no potential reignition.
The team wrapped up the operation at 7.35 pm.
The cause of the fire and losses incurred are still under investigation.
