PPDA Key Unit Of Fire And Rescue Dept

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 4 (Bernama) -- The Water Rescue Unit (PPDA) is one of the key units of the Fire and Rescue Department. During its inception in 1987 in Perak, the team was known as the Fire and Rescue Department Scuba Unit. According to the search on the Internet, its establishment at that time was due to frequent water rescue incidents. The Fire and Rescue Department took proactive steps in the early 90's by equipping divers with a number of new and up-to-date rescue equipment. “In 2006, this unit was renamed PPDA and up to 2012 there were 472 trained members throughout Malaysia,” according to www.bomba.gov.my. The main role of PPDA is to handle incidents and emergencies that occur in the water with its qualified officers and personnel trained at home and abroad. PPDA unit members must have a diving licence from the National Association of Underwater Instructors. -- BERNAMA