Minister Of Communications Highlights Importance Of Efficiency In Fighting Fire
By P Marilyn

Bandar Seri Begawan - The efficiency of fire-fighting operations can increase the level of flight security at the Brunei International Airport as well as play an important role in the development of the nation's civil aviation and air transport.

The efficiency of services and increased awareness in terms of safety and security for the three modes of transportation - air, sea and land - are necessary for the development of the three industry sectors in Brunei.

Brunei's Ministry of Communications has also established `Safe, Secure and Clean Environment' as one of its strategic objectives that need to be achieved to realise the ministry's vision of a more sophisticated society, as well as increased excellence in communications for national competitiveness.

This was highlighted by Pehin Dato Seri Setia Hj Abu Bakar Hj Apong in his capacity as the Minister of Communications during the opening of Brunei International Airport's new fire station, yesterday, at the Department of Civil Aviation in Berakas.

He said that in realising the strategic objectives and in complying with the International Civil Aviation Convention (Chicago Convention), the ministry through the Department of CivilAviation needs to ensure that all associated organisations and service providers, including the Airport Fire Services, will continue to act in accordance with the International Civil Aviation Standards and Recommended Practices.

The Department of Civil Aviation and the Airport Fire Services Section should also always ensure that firefighters, fire engines and fire-extinguishing equipment meet the terms of `Kategori 9 Tahap Perlindungan Kebakaran' to safeguard any aeroplanes that land at the airport, including their passengers, pilots, as well as possessions or belongings aboard the aircraft.

The minister also emphasised that the efficiency and competency of firefighters in responding to emergencies are measured by their swiftness in travelling from the fire station to the location of occurrence, which is crucial in saving lives and belongings.

The minister said that, in turn, the firefighters' promptness depends on the conditions of their fire engines, which have to be kept in a tiptop condition. Inspections on the vehicles must be conducted on a regular basis and any damages be repaired immediately, he added. He also suggested internal audits to be carried out on the fire services from time to time.

Yesterday's event also saw the promotion and appointment of firefighters by the minister. He congratulated them for successfully completing their respective courses and hoped that all the knowledge as well as skills gained would be put to use in carrying out their daily duties.

He also reminded the firefighters to be disciplined, as well as to abide by the rules and regulations implemented by their superiors, while constantly enhancing their knowledge and skills. As a firefighter, it is compulsory to be vigilant, prepared, as well as physically and mentally fit, as immediate response to an emergency is vital and it is a heavy responsibility that requires much concentration. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

Related News: Opening Of New Fire Station For Airport

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