Local fire department admits capability limitations

The Cebu City Fire Department can battle a fire on skyscrapers as long as the buildings are not more than 18 stories tall.

Fire Marshal Rogelio Bongabong said they have two ladders that can reach the seventh and the 18th floors, respectively.

He said they can't purchase a ladder that can reach more than 20 floors because that means acquiring a bigger fire truck.

He said that majority of the city's roads are not wide enough to accommodate such a truck.

The city's tallest building (55 stories) is still under construction on Gen. Maxilom Ave.

Bongabong said buildings are required to install proper fire exits, sprinklers, fire extinguishers and alarms.

He said most new high-rise buildings and condominiums complied with the fire safety code.

“They have early-warning systems,” he said in a phone interview.

They also designed elevators and stairs intended for firefighters in times of emergency, he said.

Bongabong said residents of condominiums should be familiar with fire exits, while building owners should conduct regular fire drills.

The fire department was forced to address the issue, after 17 people were confirmed dead in a blaze that struck a 21-story building in London, England last Wednesday. /