BNPB Urges Indonesians to Wear Masks as Forest Fires Spread

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is prioritizing public safety amid widespread forest and land fires, strongly advising residents in affected regions to use protective masks for outdoor activities. The agency is actively encouraging public participation in preventing further blazes.

"BNPB continues to encourage all people in affected areas to wear masks, particularly when engaging in outdoor activities," stated Berton SP Panjaitan, Acting Head of the BNPB Center for Disaster Data, Information, and Communication. He emphasized the ongoing firefighting efforts across multiple regions and called on the public to avoid any actions that could ignite fires, particularly as the country anticipates continued extreme dry conditions due to El Nino through mid-September.

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BNPB continues to encourage all people in affected areas to wear masks, particularly when engaging in outdoor activities.

Panjaitan also urged smokers to ensure cigarette butts are completely extinguished to mitigate fire risks. The BNPB reported that containment and cooling operations are progressing in Sumatra and Kalimantan. Specific areas in Riau Province, including Pelalawan, Bengkalis, Kampar, Indragiri Hulu, and Indragiri Hilir districts, are experiencing persistent hotspots on peatlands. Efforts are also underway in West Kalimantan to control flames and prevent flare-ups, with haze visible in numerous districts. South Kalimantan is also facing ongoing containment challenges in several of its districts.

The agency's warnings come as Indonesia grapples with the dual threats of wildfires and the resulting haze, exacerbated by dry weather conditions. The emphasis on mask-wearing highlights the immediate health risks posed by the smoke, while the calls for prevention underscore the need for collective action to combat the fires.

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We will also continue to urge people across Indonesia not to engage in activities that could potentially cause fires.