Fire incidents down 78% — BFP

Efforts to educate the public to be wary of a situation that could lead to fires are apparently paying off, with incidents down by over 78 percent during the first 20 days of Fire Prevention Month.

In a report, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) said there were only 406 fire incidents from March 1 to 20 this year compared to 1,864 during the same period last year.

Chief Insp. Ian Manalo, BFP spokesman, said six persons died from this year’s incidents while 16 others were injured – a significantly smaller number compared with last year’s 19 dead and 70 injured.

He added that damage to property caused by fire this year was at P50.09 million or about one-third of last year’s P156.45 million worth of properties damaged.

Aside from its own campaign, Manalo said BFP also supports private sector efforts to stir public awareness on safety and security.

The International Fire and Security Exhibition and Conference – the world’s leading portfolio of security, fire and safety events – is also focusing on expanding the industry’s edition to the Philippines to promote safety and security in commercial establishments and residences.

The BFP said homeowners should turn off fuse boxes when leaving the house and not use appliances like electric fans and air conditioners continuously for long period, to avoid overheating that may ultimately cause fire.

“Unplug appliances if not in use and avoid octopus connections,” the BFP said. “Store combustible materials out of children’s reach and inspect your LPG tanks and hose.”

The BFP also advised Filipinos to familiarize themselves with the hotline number of the fire station nearest them.