SAN JOSE, Antique – As part of Fire Prevention Month, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Antique is focusing on educating the public, particularly schoolchildren, about fire safety and emergency preparedness.
In a series of fire drills planned throughout the province, the BFP aims to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to respond effectively in case of fire-related emergencies.
Senior Fire Officer Jefferson Cordero, head of the Fire Safety Enforcement Division, emphasized the importance of these drills for young learners.
“We need to conduct fire drills so that children would not be trapped in their homes whenever there is a fire incident,” Cordero said, stressing the role of early education in preventing potential disasters.
The fire safety message extends beyond schools. Cordero urged families to be vigilant about everyday hazards, such as ensuring that electric stoves and appliances are turned off after use.
He also pointed out simple but often overlooked risks like leaving pans with cooking oil on the stove, which could easily ignite a fire.
“Pans with cooking oil, if not cleaned and left on the stove, could also catch fire,” he warned.
He added: “Mobile phone chargers and electric fans, if left unplugged, may also overheat and cause fire.”
So far, the BFP has conducted 13 fire drills across schools, healthcare facilities, businesses, and the local electric cooperative this year. As of March 1, the BFP has also responded to 28 fire distress calls, with 20 of these originating from residential areas. (With a report from the Philippine News Agency)/PN
