FIRE PREVENTION IN OLONGAPO

Two fire-related incidents in the City of Olongapo this January, which are only one day apart, raised alarm in the public and concern from the City Government. Both incidents happened in residential establishments damaging properties estimated at more than a million pesos and claimed the life of an 11-year-old girl.

Vice Mayor Cynthia G. Cajudo is appealing to the public to practice fire safety measures. The city government wants to ensure the public’s safety by reminding them of the little things they can do to prevent such accidents in their homes.

She is urging Olongapeños to follow the fifteen (15) Fire Safety Tips of the Philippine National Red Cross, as follows:
1. Avoid electrical overloading.
2. Unplug all electrical appliances after every use.
3. Check all electrical installations regularly.
4. Check gas stoves and LPG tanks for leaks.
5. Keep children away from flammable liquids, lighters and matches.
6. Avoid smoking in bed.
7. Ensure you have a pre-fire plan at your residence or office.
8. Do not leave lighted mosquito coils unattended.
9. Always take extra precautions while cooking.
10. Never leave lighted candles unattended.
11. Do not throw lighted cigar or cigarette butts on dried leaves and garbage.
12. Strictly obey the no smoking signs.
13. Maintain proper housekeeping to eliminate fire hazards.
14. Check fire protection gadgets or devices of appliances and equipment regularly.
15. Be fire-safety conscious.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), headed by CInsp. Jonas R. Silvano, conducts regular inspections to business establishments and also supervises practice drills in schools and offices to combat fire incidents.

Mayor James “Bong” Gordon personally inspected the site where a fire incident razed an old apartment along Norton St. in Pagasa and Canda St. in East Bajac-Bajac.

PAO/ chay