ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) – The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is intensifying its fire prevention efforts as fire incidents continue to rise during the holiday season, with a 60% increase recorded compared to last year.
Fire Superintendent Christopher Morales, District Fire Marshal of Zamboanga City, emphasized the need for heightened vigilance, particularly in households and commercial establishments.
During the Yuletide season, many people decorate their homes with Christmas lights and other festive items. One of the main fire safety tips we share is to ensure that Christmas lights bear an Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) sticker,” Morales said.
The ICC guarantees that the products meet Philippine National Standards, reducing the risk of electrical fires.”
Morales noted that the surge in fire incidents has been driven by both structural and non-structural fires, the latter aggravated by prolonged droughts due to the El Niño phenomenon.
Out of the 60% increase in incidents, only 20% are structural fires. The rest are grass fires, bush fires, and rubbish fires,” he explained.
To prevent fires, Morales urged residents to monitor cooking activities closely, as unattended stoves remain a leading cause of household fires.
Fire doubles in size every 30 seconds under normal conditions. Never leave cooking unattended, and always ensure that LPG tanks are free of leaks,” he added.
The BFP has also increased fire safety inspections in malls, stores, and public establishments to ensure compliance with safety standards. Regular fire drills and awareness lectures are being conducted to educate the public and raise community awareness.
Morales reminded the public that Zamboanga City has a total ban on firecrackers.
We encourage residents to use alternatives like trumpets or other noise-making tools instead. Fire safety starts at home, and it is the best gift we can give to our families and communities,” he said.
The BFP urges the public to call 911 or their nearest fire station in case of emergencies. Morales further reiterated, “Your safety is our priority. Never re-enter a burning building. Let the firefighters do their job.”
The BFP’s message is clear: fire safety awareness and vigilance are essential to ensuring a safe and joyful holiday season for all. (JPA/MLE/PIA Region 9-Zamboanga City)
