Caltex anticipates forest fires, takes measures

Oil and gas company PT Caltex Pacific Indonesia has raised its alertness following the forest fires in Riau province, the Koran Tempo newspaper reported in its Monday edition.

This action was taken in anticipation of the spread of the fires to several araes, where its facilities are located too close to the hot spots.

Caltex's oil fields in Minas, Bangko and Duri subdistricts are considered vulnerable given their proximity to the forest fires.

"In Minas area, we have even deployed fire brigade to put off the fires," Caltex spokesman Hanfi Kadir said on Saturday in Pekanbaru.

According to Hanafi, Caltex will be proactive in helping local authorities to put off the forest fires near its facilities. Caltex has already prepared a team and vehicles to deal with the forest fires.(*)