Strict implementation of fire code results in 139% decrease of fire damages

By Thelma C. Bicarme

Thursday 2nd of August 2012

CABARROGUIS, Quirino, Aug 2 (PIA) -- Chief inspector Allan Maniguing Eballar of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) here has reported that despite the increase of fire incidents this year, a decrease of 139 percent in fire damages to properties was noted.

There were four fire incidents in the province compared to three last year for the same period.

Eballar attributed the decrease of fire damages to their strict implementation of Republic Act 9514 or the Fire Code that led to the inspection of 2,658 establishments from January to June, which is 34.5 percent higher than the 1,976 inspected establishments last year.

The fire bureau also conducted 102 fire safety lectures to schools, government offices and establishments, and other institutions to inculcate fire safety awareness and to maintain public alertness.

In the conduct of fire drills, Eballar has reported a remarkable increase from 29 drills last year to 49 this year, or a 69 percent increase.

“We were also able to train 193 volunteer fire brigades from the schools and barangays," Eballar said.

"As a result of our massive information drive on Fire Code, we were able to increase up to 80 percent our collection in Fire Code fees, from P326,864.50 last year to P433,089 this year," he said.

Eballar also attributed their accomplishments to the rich roster of BFP officers and personnel with diverse specializations and their harmonious relationship to attain a common mission to prevent and suppress destructive fires, enforce fire-related laws, and provide emergency medical and rescue services to the public. (TCB-PIA 2, Quirino)