MANILA, Philippines — As the country observes Fire Prevention Month this March, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is appealing to households and commercial establishments to make sure their electrical systems are well maintained.
Senior Supt. Annalee Carbajal-Atienza, BFP spokesperson, said unsafe or wrong use of electrical facilities remains the principal cause of fire incidents.
“These incidents are often due to misuse of electrical appliances, overloading of power outlets and the dangerous practice of octopus connections,” Atienza said.
The other leading causes are open flames from gas lamps and candles, unattended cooking and embers or sparks from activities like kaingin (slash-and-burn farming), which can ignite flammable materials.
She noted, though, that fire incidents declined by 38 percent to 2,403 between Jan. 1 and Feb. 28 compared to the 3,847 incidents in the same period last year.
Data from BFP showed mercantile occupancies, including mixed-use buildings where commercial establishments occupy lower floors and residential spaces are on upper levels, posted a significant number of fire cases.
Atienza said the BFP has limited jurisdiction over residential properties as the Fire Code of the Philippines allows inspection only on business establishments and other non-residential occupancies.
As a precaution, she stressed the importance of safety equipment like fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, emergency lights and accessible emergency exits.
“At least two means of egress are required per room to ensure safe evacuation in case of fire,” Atienza said.
Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla earlier announced plans to modernize the country’s emergency response systems, including the acquisition of 600 new fire trucks. — Elizabeth Marcelo