Hold fire drills, Atienza orders

With the start of the Fire Prevention Month today, Manila Mayor Lito Atienza ordered yesterday fire drills and seminars in offices and schools to keep the public aware of what to do in case of emergency.

"Make sure that barangay officials, residents, as well as building tenants, students and personnel of schools are aware of safety and prevention measures," said Atienza in his directive to Manila Fire Department chief Superintendent Pablito Cordeta.

Atienza said it is important that the public know what steps to take to avoid fires and what they have to do in case a fire breaks out.

Fire Prevention Month is observed every March since it is the start of the summer season. Fire incidents are more likely to break-out because of the high temperature during this time of the year.

The Bureau of Fire Protection is set to hold a fun-run today at the Quirino Grandstand at the Rizal Park to kick-off Fire Prevention Month.

As part of BFP programs, firemen will conduct seminars and drills in the city.

According to BFP reports, faulty electrical wiring, lighted candles and cigarettes left unattended and short-circuited appliances are common causes of fire.

Last Wednesday, some 20 houses were gutted down after a fire broke out in Paco, Manila. Though no one was reported injured, about P5 million worth of property went up in flames. – Cecille Suerte Felipe