Central Jakarta Fire and Rescue Admits, Complete Fire Extinguisher, But Not Working

JAKARTA - Head of the Central Jakarta Fire and Rescue (Gulkarmat) Sub-dept Head, Unggul, stated that in almost 44 urban villages and 8 sub-districts in Central Jakarta, fire extinguishers were found to be malfunctioning.

The findings are based on the data collection of the Central Jakarta Gulkarmat Sub-dept for the last 6 months.

"According to our data, on average, fire protection equipment components are not functioning properly", he said when contacted by VOI, Tuesday, October 12.

Unggul said damage to fire fighting equipment included hydrants, sprinklers, water pumps, and smoke detectors. The four components continued Unggul, are owned in all sub-district and sub-district offices, but many are not functioning.

"If the equipment is all there, but (it is) not functioning. On average it is not maintained, because there is no budget for the maintenance of the equipment", he said.

To prevent fires, Unggul said that all villages and sub-districts in Central Jakarta are required to have fire extinguishers (Apar). Not only have fire extinguishers, but employees must be able to use these fire extinguishers.

"If we check the Apar everything is functioning and well maintained", he said.