DAET, Camarines Norte – The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) has strengthened its fire safety campaign in its 32nd monthlong anniversary celebration this month of August.

During the Ugnayan sa PIA Camarines Norte’s Talakayan Episode on Monday, August 21, BFP Camarines Norte Deputy Provincial Fire Marshal CInsp.  Adonis D. Osea discussed the fire safety tips that the public  need to know to avoid damages in their properties and lives in the event of fire incidents. 

He said that due to the increasing number of fire incidents in the province, the bureau recorded 89 from January to August 21 this year as compared to only 49 cases recorded in the same period last year.

Osea said that the number might still increase due to the hot weather condition that is being experienced in the province.

To avoid fire incidents, he imparted the following tips: always practice good housekeeping, don’t put garbage or liquid chemicals that can explode indoors such as thinner, paint, and gasoline; always check  fire extinguishers and make it a habit to  check  LPG tanks and elecrtrical connections.   Lighters, matches, and other flammable substances should be kept in  high places or should be kept out of reach of children. 

He also reminded the public that if one accidentally catches fire while cooking,  immediately cover the pan with a lid, wet cloth or rag then turn off the stove. 

Indoor smoking should also be avoided, especially in the bedroom, and do not throw away the cigar with the tip still lit. He added that lighted candles or gas stoves should not be placed near curtains and other combustibles things such as trash and paper, most especially when it is windy.

Another fire safety precaution is to remove obstructions from fire exits. These areas must be kept clean and open at all times. Family members should also  practice a Fire Escape Plan.

BFP Provincial Information Officer FO1 Donela Joy A. Abellano also discussed the month-long activities of the BFP which include bloodletting, Zumba, and tree planting.  

The regionwide commemoration of the 32nd anniversary was conducted on August 8, including live performances at the evacuation centers in Albay, and Audio-Visual Presentations about BFP highlights were posted on their FB page.

This year’s theme is “Modernong Bumbero: Kaakibat tungo sa ligtas at maunlad na Pamayanan.”

The functions and mandates of the BFP as stipulated in the RA 9514 or the Fire Code of the Philippines of 2008 are fire safety inspections, building plan evaluation, release of clearances; fire incidents response, giving medical services during fire incidents and calamities; conducting fire earthquake drill; and public information campaigns;  among others.

The BFP also conduct Community Relations Services like Oplan Ligtas na Pamayanan through partnerships with barangay officials to guide them and give them strategies for the safety of their community from fire hazards. 

Fire Square Road Show was launched in the Bicol Region as one of the Fire Prevention Month 2023 Kick-Off programs. Several road shows have also been conducted in the provinces.

Republic Act 11589 or the 10-year BFP Modernization Act of 2021 was implemented this year which resulted in the acquisition of state-of-the-art firetrucks, ambulances, establishment of fire stations, and training of personnel among others.

The BFP was formed from the units of the Integrated National Police’s Office of the Fire Protection Service on January 29, 1991, through Republic Act No. 6975 which created the present Interior Department and placed the provision of fire service under its control.

Republic Act. No. 6975 or the DILG Act of 1990, took effect on January 1, 1991, and paved the way for the establishment of the PNP, BJMP, and BFP as separate entities. The Appropriation Act of 1991 also caused the inaugural operation of the BFP on Aug. 2, 1991, as a distinct agency of the government.

The Ugnayan sa PIA Camarines Norte’s Talakayan Episode was hosted by PIA ICM Rose Manlangit. The program episode was posted on PIA Camarines Norte’s FB page on Aug. 21 and aired over DWCN-FM Radyo Pilipinas on the same day at 5:00 o’clock in the afternoon. (RBManlangit-PIA5/Camarines Norte)