Install CCTV, alarm system at balconies as additional safety measures to prevent children from falling from buildings

SHAH ALAM - Parental supervision, along with installing alarm systems and closed-circuit television camera (CCTV) at balconies is crucial to prevent child accidents in high-rise buildings.

Prominent social activist Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said while parental supervision was the primary way to prevent unfortunate incidents involving children, additional safety measures were also necessary.

Lee urged authorities to install CCTV systems to monitor balconies in high-rise buildings to help prevent any unfortunate incidents by keeping a close watch on these areas where accidents usually happen.

"Authorities should install CCTV to monitor the balconies or corridors of high-rise buildings. The personnel in the control room can help monitor and prevent any unfortunate incidents," he said when contacted.

Besides installation of CCTVs at balconies, Lee also suggested setting up alarm systems as an additional safety measure.

This, he said would allow authorities, the security personnel or others near the building to be notified if anyone was in a dangerous situation at the building.

"They must set up an alarm system so that the control centre can quickly identify which block or unit is at risk and take immediate action to prevent accidents or injuries.

"Security guards can be dispatched to the specific floor to prevent children from playing dangerously (at balconies)," he added.

Lee said he acknowledged that installing CCTVs and alarm systems required funding, but it was crucial to allocate the necessary resources for these additional safety measures.

"Most old or low-cost flats do not have CCTVs. However, for the safety of the children, allocate a budget to install these additional safety measures.

"It is also advisable for parents to always keep an eye on and monitor their kids, especially in high-rise buildings.

"Kids are not aware of the danger and they might climb outside of the house unit, especially on corridors or balconies," he said.

The call to action follows recent cases where children have fallen from apartment buildings, resulting in tragic deaths.