02/03/2024
March is being observed as Fire Prevention Month here in the Philippinesβa perfect time to discuss and raise awareness about the causes, hazards, and dangers of fire.
By virtue of Proclamation No. 115-A, signed by then-President Ferdinand E. Marcos, and Proclamation No. 360 in 1986, the month of March was declared as βFire Prevention Monthβ or βBurn Prevention Month.β
The fire prevention month campaign, according to the measure, promotes βsafety consciousness among our people every day of the year as a positive preventive approach to a problem that can be solved by more caution, vigilance, sobriety, the exercise of common sense, and respect for the law.β
State weather bureau PAGASA said the temperature and humidity in March start to reach higher levels, with the hot, dry weather causing a rise in reported fire cases around the country.
March is one of the hottest months of the year and it marks the beginning of the summer season in the Philippines. It is also the month that has one of the most alarming fire incidents in the country, based on data by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).
Top 5 Fire Hazards in the Home and How to Prevent Them
1. Electrical Problems
Faulty wiring and malfunctioning appliances are some of the most common causes of house fires. To prevent these issues, make sure all electrical systems are up to code. Promptly investigate and repair signs of problems like flickering lights, sparks, outlets that get hot to the touch and outlets that stop working. Appliances that spark or give off smoke should be repaired or replaced.
2. Cooking Incidents
Kitchens have a high risk of fires because they include heat, open flames, and flammable materials. Reduce your risk of cooking-related fires by monitoring stovetops, keeping flammable objects like paper towels and cookbooks away from heat sources and keeping a fire extinguisher in the kitchen. Donβt forget to educate family members on the importance of fire safety and how to use the extinguisher.
3. Heating Appliances
You canβt do without a heat source during the harsh Ontario winter, but you can mitigate the fire risk it can pose. Get faulty furnaces fixed promptly and avoid using space heaters for general heating. If you must use a space heater, keep it a meter away from anything flammable, set it up on a sturdy surface so it wonβt tip and avoid using extension cords.
4. Candles and Other Open Flames
Candles create a cozy atmosphere, but they are also a leading cause of house fires. Be sure to use a fireproof candle holder, keep lit candles away from curtains and other flammable and put candles out before leaving the room. Consider using flameless candles as a safer alternative.
5. Smoking
Even though fewer people smoke than in times past, ci******es, ci**rs, and similar items are still significant causes of house fires. The safest solution is to avoid smoking in the house and use outdoor spaces like a back patio. The next-best solution is to keep plenty of large ashtrays handy and empty them frequently.