More Fire Prevention Tips Nathan Cabello

CEBU, Philippines - March is designated as Fire Prevention Month in the country. Around this time, and through the next few months, there has been an observed high incidence of disastrous fires. Thus, concerned government agencies, particularly the Bureau of Fire Protection, are once again quick in reminding the public to adopt measures for averting accidents relating to fire.

Indeed, it helps a lot to be extra careful - not only in summer but every day the whole year round. The following ideas from Rianne Hill Soriano, writing at the website ehow.com, are good to bear in mind:

.Take Extra Precautions with Flammable Materials

Matches, flammable liquids, lighters, and other combustibles must be properly stored or disposed of, as these can ignite fire, especially with heat and oxygen around them. These materials shall be kept away from the reach of children, even away from pets.

In case of a power outage, it is important not to leave lighted candles or even mosquito coils unattended; these shall not be placed near cloth and paper or near curtains and fans.

During the summer months, ignition might result from gas and other flammable liquids upon reaching their ignition point due to the high temperature. Don't throw lit cigarette butts on dried leaves, garbage, and pieces of tissue as these may cause sudden combustion and the fire can easily spread through these materials.

.Regularly Check and Properly Maintain                 Electrical Components

Faulty electrical wiring is one of the major causes of fire in homes, offices, and business establishments. Electrical overloading, worn-out wiring and improper maintenance of broken electric cords often lead to short circuits. Aside from visible electrical problems of outlets and cords, there are also risks that are often hidden from view. It is important to regularly conduct proper maintenance check of electrical installations.

Electrical appliances shall be unplugged after every use. In case of frayed wiring or broken electrical fixtures, a qualified electrician must be contacted at once to fix the problem. Some homeowners try to save money by choosing to do electrical repairs by themselves - this is not advisable, both considering the risk of electrocution and the possibility of the problem not being fully solved and, thus, perpetuating the risk of a fire.

.Make Pre-fire Plans and Participate in Fire Drills

Education on fire safety and prevention is very important in avoiding fire hazards and accidents. Adopting fire-prevention practices is equally as important, like making pre-fire plans and learning life-saving procedures in case of fire. It is wise to invest in a fire extinguisher and place it in an easily accessible place. (Bigger spaces need more fire extinguishers.) Everyone in the home, office or any other work places shall be taught how to use the extinguisher. This is also very important to have in schools. Escape routes must be clearly defined beforehand and made known to everyone concerned.

An added safety measure would be to have the phone number of the local fire department near the home phone or in the mobile phones of family members. Offices and business establishments must provide such phone number to their employees, as well. Also, it is certainly an advantage to be able to participate in fire drills, which are usually conducted by the local government and private groups. (FREEMAN)