Singapore-registered BMW catches fire, driver gets out unhurt

A Singapore-registered car caught fire at the Sultan Iskandar Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine (CIQ) Complex in Johor Bahru (JB) on July 8, 2024. The incident, which occurred at the vehicle exit lane leading towards Singapore, fortunately left the Singaporean driver unscathed.

The fire broke out at approximately 8:15 PM, engulfing the vehicle in flames. According to eyewitnesses, the car, identified as a BMW, was seen emitting smoke from the engine before it burst into flames. The Johor Bahru police confirmed that the driver, a Singaporean, managed to escape without any injuries. The Malaysian fire and rescue department believes that the fire originated from the car's engine.

Rapid Response and Containment

Checkpoint staff and the emergency rapid response team at the Sultan Iskandar CIQ Complex quickly attended to the fire. It took about 25 minutes to completely extinguish the blaze. Despite the swift response, the car was reported to be about 60 percent damaged. The incident was captured on video and shared on social media platforms, where viewers could see the vehicle ablaze and checkpoint staff working to control the fire.

Quotes from the Scene

A spokesperson from the Johor Bahru police stated, "The driver was fortunate to escape without any injuries. The fire was contained swiftly by the emergency response team, preventing further damage." Another eyewitness remarked, "It was a terrifying sight, but the quick action of the checkpoint staff ensured that the situation was brought under control."

Importance of Fire Safety

This incident highlights the importance of being prepared for emergencies. The driver, who managed to escape unhurt, emphasized the significance of having a fire extinguisher in the vehicle. "Having a fire extinguisher on hand can make a critical difference in such situations," he said. The car owner plans to revamp the vehicle, including new wiring and a fresh engine bay.

While the sight of a car catching fire is undoubtedly alarming, the swift response from the checkpoint staff and emergency teams ensured that the incident was contained quickly, minimizing damage and preventing injuries. This event serves as a reminder of the importance of vehicle maintenance and emergency preparedness.