Every March, we celebrate Fire Prevention Month.
Allow me to trace its history. In 1966, former president Ferdinand Marcos signed Proclamation 115-A, assigning time to particular areas of safety and accident prevention each month of the year. The goal was to promote safety consciousness among Filipinos. Interestingly, former president Corazon Aquino declared March, through Proclamation 360, as “Burn Prevention Month” in 1989, “to disseminate knowledge in the field of burn prevention and to enhance education in all phases of burn care”.
To prevent fires in your homes, the most important thing is that homeowners must have a proactive approach to fire prevention. I advise the homeowners to check the electrical system regularly and apply necessary maintenance measures. When you’re buying new components, be sure these products have passed the quality standards of the Department of Trade and Industry. Faulty electrical wiring has been a major cause of fires, according to the Bureau of Fire and Protection.
It would also be good if every home has at least one fire extinguisher placed in a strategic location. The device is a great investment in safety, as it enables the family to nip a fire in bud when the extinguisher is quickly accessible and used properly.
Every family must also organize their own fire drill. Each family member must be conscious and aware that a fire can happen anytime and anywhere. With a fire drill, every member should be informed about the safest escape route. If you are living in a condominium, safe escape routes will be clearly marked by emergency exit signage. Take note of this so that the route will be familiar in case of an emergency. You can also join the fire drills organized by your building’s property management group.
Aside from saving power consumption, unplugging devices that you are not using such as computers, televisions, and gaming consoles is one measure to prevent fire. Remember that unplugged devices have a strong power surge that might cause a fire. Using surge protectors is also a very good step because you don’t have to worry about that excess electricity getting to the item and causing a fire.
Be sure you don’t leave any type of flame or heat unattended. It pays to watch it until your activity, whether it’s cooking or heating, is done. This includes candles, which create a cozy ambiance, but should not be left unattended. Family members must also be reminded that flammable items such as fabrics, paper, and chemicals such as alcohol must be put far away from excessive heat or flame. Keeping these items near the flame or heat is a tragic invitation to disaster. Further, keep away from children things like matches and lighters.
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