East Jakarta Now Has 2,400 Volunteer Firefighters

The East Jakarta Fire and Rescue Sub-agency now has 2,400 volunteer firefighters spread across 65 urban villages. The role of these volunteers is being strengthened to bolster fire prevention and response efforts in the community.

This is aimed at empowering the community

East Jakarta Prevention Section Head Edi Parwoko stated noted that the thousands of volunteer firefighters were formed in stages between 2024 and 2026. Annually, the sub-agency aims to set up volunteer units in 30 locations.

“This year, volunteer firefighters have been established in 25 locations so far. We are targeting to hit 30 locations by December,” he expressed, Friday (11/6).

100 West Jakarta FKDM Members Receive Fire Prevention Education

He noted that the rollout of volunteer firefighter units will continue expanding to reach all RWs in East Jakarta. Looking ahead, the sub-agency targets having at least two volunteer firefighters in each RT to strengthen local readiness against fire risks.

This volunteer initiative refers to Law Number 23/2014 on Regional Government, which governs the execution of governmental responsibilities, including fire and rescue services.

“This is aimed at empowering the community, specifically in terms of fire prevention and mitigation,” he added.

He emphasized that volunteer firefighters are essential beyond emergency situations. In everyday life, they perform key roles in community surveillance, risk mitigation, identifying fire-prone zones, and raising public awareness.

Therefore, all volunteers must have sufficient understanding of fire prevention and mitigation. Regular, straightforward education is seen as a powerful tool to minimize the likelihood of fires.

“Even basic fire safety tips shared with the community can produce remarkable results in preventing fires from occurring,” he explained.

For instance, he pointed out that residents can be reminded to ensure stoves are turned off before going to sleep at night. Additionally, unused electrical appliances should be unplugged from power outlets, and doors and windows must be securely locked.

To qualify as a volunteer firefighter, he added, candidates must be at least 19 years old, self-reliant, and capable of working collaboratively in carrying out community service in their neighborhoods.

“As more volunteer firefighters are established down to the neighborhood level, we hope that East Jakarta residents will not merely be passive recipients of information, but will also actively serve on the front lines of fire prevention in their respective areas,” he emphasized.