Its director-general, Nor Hisham Mohammad, said the highest number of such cases last year were recorded in Johor (32 cases), Terengganu (29) and Perak (23).

“In the first two months of this year, seven cases were reported, two each in Johor and Penang, and one each in Kedah, Kuala Lumpur and Melaka,” Harian Metro quoted him as saying.

As enforcement alone was not enough to prevent such fires, Nor Hisham said the department was conducting safety inspections and monitoring premises with other agencies during festive periods, besides running public awareness campaigns.

He urged the public to remain vigilant when using firecrackers and fireworks, especially during festive seasons.

He reminded them to buy from licensed sellers, supervise their children, never modify fireworks and refrain from using them during dry or windy conditions.

“Use firecrackers in open and safe areas. Prepare water or fire extinguishers, and ensure any fires are fully extinguished before leaving.” He said fireworks must never be lit near flammable materials.

“Dispose of remnants properly by soaking them in water first, and act quickly if sparks or small fires occur.”

Recent fire incidents include a stall destroyed in Taman Pekaka, Nibong Tebal, Penang, on March 22, and a storage cabin fire in Kampung Gong Limau, Terengganu, on March 13.