The Jakarta Fire and Disaster (Gulkarmat) Agency has noted that as many as 489 fire cases have been occurred in Jakarta throughout January to April 26. The number is down compared to the same period last year that reached 527 cases.

Precautions and early handling of fires are very important

According to Satriadi Gunawan, Head of Jakarta Gulkarmat Agency, 433 cases were successfully handled by firefighters, while the rest were managed independently by the community.

"The total area burnt during January to April 26 reached 48,000 square meters with a total loss estimated at Rp 77 billion," he expressed, Monday (4/27).

Then the fire was more caused by electricity short-circuit (327 cases), gas (58 cases) and burning waste (23 cases).

"Burning objects are dominated by house buildings, outdoor installations, public and commercial buildings and vehicles," he explained.

He furthered this decreasing number of fire cases is inseparable from the continuing socialization and education efforts. Thus, public awareness regarding the danger of fire is also increasing.

"Precautions and early handling of fires are very important. Including, in an effort to minimize the potential for material losses and casualties," he stated.