Unsafe wiring, daob cited as fire safety risks

CEBU, Philippines —  The Mandaue City Council has approved a resolution urging stricter enforcement of ordinances on unsafe electrical wiring and the open burning of backyard waste as fire risks rise during the dry season and prevailing El Niño conditions.

Authored by City Councilor Eugene Andaya, the measure calls on barangays, the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), the Bureau of Fire Protection, the City Engineering Office, and other concerned agencies to intensify inspection, monitoring, and enforcement efforts, particularly in interior areas where violations remain common.

“During karong panahona nga init kaayo, uso kaayo ang sunog. Mao ng atong gi-call out ang mga barangays ug disaster teams nga i-review pagbalik ang existing ordinances para makalikay ani nga mga panghitabo,” Andaya said.

The resolution highlights the need to crack down on illegal electrical line tapping, unauthorized connections, and unsafe or sagging wires, commonly referred to as “spaghetti wiring”, which pose serious fire hazards in both residential and commercial areas.

Andaya said illegal tapping continues to be rampant in some barangays, especially in interior communities.

He warned that unregulated and excessive connections can lead to electrical overload and short circuits that may trigger fires.

The measure also reiterates the ban on open burning of backyard waste, in line with Republic Act 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act, which prohibits the open burning of solid waste due to health and environmental risks.

“Ang daob usa pud na kay dry season karon, delikado kaayo kay dali ra kaayo mokatay ang kayo kay dry ang sagbot nato,” Andaya added.

Citing provisions of the Local Government Code of 1991, the resolution underscores the city’s authority to regulate the installation and maintenance of electrical and utility lines, including the removal of hazardous wiring.

To strengthen implementation, Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils are directed to conduct regular inspections within their jurisdictions, report illegal electrical connections and unsafe wiring, and coordinate with proper authorities on violations.

They are also encouraged to carry out localized information and education campaigns on fire prevention, and mobilize community volunteers and purok leaders to support disaster preparedness initiatives.

The CDRRMO has been tasked to lead a citywide information drive on fire prevention, promoting safety awareness among residents. The campaign includes public reminders discouraging illegal tapping, unsafe wiring practices, and the burning of waste.

The resolution also encourages active community participation in reporting violations and promoting a culture of safety and vigilance.

Andaya said the measure aims to reduce fire incidents, protect lives and property, and ensure safer communities across Mandaue City as extreme heat and dry conditions persist. (CEBU NEWS)