Probolinggo Resident Dies After Catching Fire While Burning Rubbish

Probolinggo, East Java (ANTARA) - A resident of Lambangkuning village in Probolinggo regency, East Java, named Mutasan, died after catching fire when he fell while trying to put out flames that spread as he burned leftover garden waste on his land on Tuesday.

“From the information we received, the victim was burning leftover garden waste on his land, but the fire grew larger. He tried to put it out, then fell and caught fire,” said Oemar Sjarief, head of the Probolinggo Regency Disaster Management Agency (BPBD).

He said the victim was reportedly suffering from a history of shortness of breath. However, the agency could not determine whether he died when the condition flared up, as he was found burned on his own land.

The agency urged the public to exercise greater care when burning rubbish or plant waste. A small fire can quickly grow in extreme weather and strong winds, putting the person responsible and others at risk.

“If a fire starts to grow and becomes difficult to control, residents should not try to put it out themselves. They are advised to seek help from the fire service or members of the public to ensure their safety.”

Mutasan’s death is a reminder that burning rubbish, often regarded as an everyday activity, can have fatal consequences if a fire gets out of control.

Police who arrived at the scene examined the body and inspected the site. Officers also secured several items of evidence and cordoned off the area.