KOTA BARU: The Kelantan Fire and Rescue Department has equipped all 22 stations in the state with child-sized life jackets to protect young flood victims during evacuations.
State Fire and Rescue Department director Farhan Sufyan Borhan said 12 small life jackets had been distributed to each station to ensure children could be evacuated safely during the flood season.
He said the life jackets, donated by several non-governmental organisations, were introduced to improve the safety of young victims during rescue operations.
“The small-sized life jackets can be used by children and teenagers aged below 18.
“Previously, our firefighters had to use normal-sized life jackets on children during rescue operations, which were not specifically designed for their smaller bodies.
“This raised concerns over their safety, especially during evacuations involving strong currents or deep floodwaters,” he said.
Farhan said the department began using the smaller life jackets last year, providing personnel with better equipment to protect children during flood operations.
He said the initiative was part of efforts to enhance preparedness and ensure the safety of vulnerable groups, particularly children, during the Northeast Monsoon.
“The availability of appropriately sized life jackets is expected to provide better protection and greater peace of mind for parents whose children may need to be evacuated during floods,” he said.